UDIT VANI Ranchi: The Election Commission (EC) conducted a two-day review visit on September 23 and 24 to assess the preparedness for the forthcoming assembly elections in Jharkhand. During this visit, representatives from various national and state political parties, including the Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, Bharatiya Janata Party, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Indian National Congress, National People’s Party, AJSU Party, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, and Rashtriya Janta Dal, met with the Commission. All parties expressed their appreciation for the successful and peaceful conduct of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024.
The political representatives raised several key issues regarding the election process. Notably, many parties requested that the Commission take into account various festivities, such as Diwali, Chhath, Durga Pooja, and the state foundation day, when determining the election schedule. They emphasized that a significant number of voters would be traveling during Chhath Pooja, which could impact voter turnout. Additionally, there was a collective call for a single-phase election to streamline the voting process.
Concerns about Electoral Rolls and Fairness
Concerns regarding the electoral rolls were also highlighted, with parties stressing the importance of error-free lists and the need for non-partisan actions by local civil and police administrations to ensure fair elections. A balanced deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and state police at sensitive and rural polling booths was recommended, with oversight from an officer at the Inspector General level. Furthermore, the parties urged for 100% webcasting at all polling stations to enhance transparency.
Accessibility at Polling Stations
Accessibility issues at polling stations were also a significant topic. Representatives requested that polling places be equipped with ramps and adequate lighting, along with priority voting for elderly citizens, persons with disabilities (PwDs), and pregnant women. The proximity of polling stations to residential areas was emphasized for voter convenience, with suggestions for pick-and-drop facilities for stations located farther away. It was noted that some families residing together were allocated different polling stations, which could lead to confusion.
Guidelines to Prevent Harassment
To prevent undue harassment by authorities, parties called for clear guidelines regarding the establishment of polling desks on election day. Additionally, concerns were raised about the deletion of voter names from electoral rolls in certain constituencies after their final publication, as well as a sudden increase in voter numbers in specific assembly constituencies that warranted investigation.
Addressing Hate Speech and Electoral Integrity
The issue of hate speech during campaigning was also addressed, with calls for a ban on raising sub-judice matters, such as the status of illegal immigrants, during campaigns. There was a consensus on the necessity for strict monitoring of illicit cash, liquor, and freebies used to influence voters, along with calls for swift action on complaints from opposition parties regarding administrative inaction.
Monitoring and Compliance Measures
Parties requested around-the-clock monitoring of candidates’ campaigning for any violations and the prohibition of campaigning via IVRS calls on election day. They also sought greater awareness of the Election Commission’s directions regarding the voluntary display of party flags by voters post-election announcement to prevent misuse of the Public Defacement Act by authorities.
EVM Transparency and Voter Information
Moreover, it was requested that details regarding the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) used at polling stations be shared with parties and candidates, with reserve EVMs available to ensure a smooth voting process. Advance distribution of Voter Information Slips was suggested to enhance voter awareness, and videography of the counting of postal ballots was proposed to maintain transparency. Other demands included timely sharing of voter lists with candidates, curbing the diversion of funds received by certain NGOs for developmental purposes toward election campaigning, and reducing the nomination fee for contesting candidates.
The comprehensive discussions during the EC’s review visit reflect the collaborative effort between the Commission and political parties to ensure a fair, transparent, and accessible electoral process in Jharkhand.
