102 Parliamentary Constituencies across 21 States/Union Territories, alongside 92 Assembly Constituencies in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, are gearing up for polling on April 19, 2024. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has instructed over 350 observers to ensure a smooth, free, and fair electoral process on that day. Special emphasis has been placed on providing all necessary amenities at polling stations, particularly to combat heat.
Sh. Rajiv Kumar, Chief Election Commissioner, along with Sh. Gyanesh Kumar, Election Commissioner, and Sh. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, Election Commissioner, has directed all observers to ensure strict adherence to guidelines. These guidelines encompass ensuring the availability of amenities for voters, preventing inducements near polling stations, optimizing the use of forces, and maintaining law and order vigilance.
Central Observers have been instructed to:
– Ensure preparedness for polling in all constituencies well in advance.
– Remain physically available within the allotted Parliamentary Constituency throughout the election process.
– Facilitate wide communication with candidates and political parties for prompt accessibility.
– Randomize deployment of forces and electoral machinery.
– Supervise the smooth process of voting for elderly and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).
– Ensure fair vulnerability mapping by district administrations.
– Commission EVM/VVPAT before candidates or their representatives.
– Oversee security arrangements at EVM Strong Rooms.
– Establish complaint redressal mechanisms and integrated Control Rooms.
– Facilitate the use of IT applications for election staff.
– Conduct orderly training for polling personnel.
– Inspect polling stations to ensure Assured Minimum Facilities.
– Set up Voter Assistance Booths and provide special facilitation for vulnerable voters.
– Ensure round-the-clock monitoring to prevent malpractices.
– Supervise Media Certification and Monitoring Committees for political advertisements.
– Combat fake news and misinformation while promoting positive narratives.
These measures are aimed at upholding the integrity and fairness of the electoral process, ensuring that voters can exercise their democratic rights freely and safely.
