Electoral Roll Revision Conducted Transparently, Claims Top Election Official
New Delhi – The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Gyanesh Kumar, has asserted that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls was executed with utmost transparency. This declaration comes amidst a backdrop of political parties seeking clarity and voicing concerns regarding election preparedness and processes in Kerala.
The CEC explicitly stated that elections are invariably conducted according to established laws, emphasizing impartiality, freeness, fairness, and transparency. He further directed heads and nodal officers of all enforcement agencies to operate with complete impartiality and to rigorously suppress any activities involving the inducement of voters. A comprehensive review meeting, involving senior election officials, intelligence officers, and district administrators, was held to deliberate on various facets of election planning. This included discussions on electronic voting machine management, logistical arrangements, training for election personnel, seizure of illicit goods, maintaining law and order, and voter outreach initiatives.
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Political Parties Seek Input on Election Scheduling and Voter Accessibility
During interactions with representatives from recognized national and state political parties, including the BJP, CPM, INC, AAP, CPI, IUML, Kerala Congress, Kerala Congress (M), and RSP, the Election Commission (EC) gathered feedback and suggestions. A notable request from these parties was to consider local festivals when finalizing election dates, ensuring minimal disruption. Furthermore, there were specific pleas to implement special arrangements to facilitate the participation of elderly and disabled voters.
The CEC urged political parties to utilize the 'cVIGIL' component of the ECINET Platform for lodging any complaints concerning violations of the model code of conduct during the election period. He also implored all parties to ensure that the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections serve as a model for the rest of the country and indeed, the world.
CEC Addresses Allegations of Misinformation and Bias
In separate contexts, the CEC has previously addressed accusations of bias and misinformation regarding electoral roll revisions, particularly in relation to Bihar. Kumar has countered claims of vote theft and rushed processes, labeling them as myths and insults to the constitution. He reiterated the EC's legal obligation to correct voter lists before each election and stated that the commission treats all political parties, whether ruling or opposition, equally. He stressed that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a standard legal procedure undertaken before every election, aimed at rectifying any deficiencies in the voter lists.
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Background: Election Commission's Preparations in Kerala
The Chief Election Commissioner's visit to Kochi involved a detailed review of poll preparedness for the forthcoming assembly elections. This included meetings with senior officials from enforcement agencies, intelligence departments, and district election officers to oversee every aspect of the electoral process. The EC is expected to announce the election dates within the week. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, a process designed to update and correct voter lists, has been highlighted by the CEC as a crucial step conducted transparently.
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