CEC Gyanesh Kumar: Policy Decisions Not Subject to Poll Promise Rules
Synopsis
In a significant media briefing, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar stated that last-minute populist promises made before elections are viewed as policy decisions. He emphasized the need for violence-free elections in four states and one UT, urging voter participation.
Key Takeaways
CEC Gyanesh Kumar emphasizes that last-minute announcements are policy decisions.
Four states and one UT will hold elections without violence.
First-time voters are encouraged to participate actively.
By-elections will occur in eight constituencies.
Results for all elections will be announced on May 4.
New Delhi, March 15 (NationPress) Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Sunday dismissed the recent announcements of so-called populist election promises made just before the declaration of Assembly election dates in four states and one Union Territory, labeling them as policy decisions.
"States are permitted to implement any policy changes right before the model code of conduct is activated. The code is now in effect," he stated during a media briefing, which commenced at 4 p.m.
“The elections across four states and one Union Territory will be conducted without violence or inducements. The Commission will enforce strict measures if any violations are observed,” declared CEC Gyanesh Kumar.
His comments followed the announcement by the West Bengal government regarding a Rs 500 increase in the monthly honorarium for purohits and muezzins. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has scheduled two phases of polling in the state for 294 seats on April 23 and 29, with results set to be revealed on May 4.
During the media session, CEC Gyanesh Kumar was also prompted about a similar populist commitment made in Tamil Nadu.
Tamil Nadu BJP leader K. Annamalai has pledged to deposit Rs 10,000 into the bank accounts of women if the party wins. Last month, the ruling DMK credited Rs 5,000 into the bank accounts of 1.31 crore women head of families under the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam (KMUT) scheme.
The ECI has announced that Assembly elections will take place in all 234 seats in a single phase in Tamil Nadu on April 23, with results to be declared on May 4.
Previously, the CEC confirmed that Assam and Kerala will hold voting in a single phase on April 9. The UT of Puducherry will also vote on April 9, with results for the two states and the UT to be announced on May 4.
Moreover, the CEC disclosed by-elections for eight constituencies across Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tripura.
Results for the bypolls will also be declared on the same day as the Assembly elections, i.e., May 4.
In his announcement of poll dates, CEC Gyanesh Kumar made a heartfelt appeal to all voters to participate and cast their votes.
Making a special request to first-time voters, he conveyed: "You are about to embark on one of the most crucial roles in life. I encourage you to engage in this democratic process and cast your vote."
"Elections are a celebration for all of us; they represent the festival of democracy in India," he emphasized.
Point of View
Gyanesh Kumar's stance underscores the integrity of electoral processes. By labeling recent announcements as policy decisions, he aims to uphold the principles of fair elections, emphasizing the importance of voter participation in a democratic society.
NationPress
28 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did CEC Gyanesh Kumar say about last-minute poll promises?
CEC Gyanesh Kumar stated that last-minute announcements before the election are considered policy decisions, not populist poll promises.
When are the elections scheduled in Tamil Nadu?
The Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu are scheduled for April 23, with results to be announced on May 4.
What did the CEC urge first-time voters to do?
The CEC urged first-time voters to participate in the electoral process and cast their votes.
How many constituencies are involved in the upcoming by-elections?
There will be by-elections for eight constituencies across various states.
What are the polling dates for Assam and Kerala?
Polling for Assam and Kerala will take place in a single phase on April 9.
