How Is the ECI Preparing for Assam Assembly Elections?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Guwahati, Feb 17 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) conducted a thorough evaluation of electoral readiness for the upcoming Assam Legislative Assembly elections on Tuesday. The review was led by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, who engaged in in-depth discussions with political parties and senior officials in Guwahati.
This review initiated the Commission's two-day visit to the state on February 17 and 18.
During their stay, the ECI met with representatives from recognized national and state political entities, including the Aam Aadmi Party, Bharatiya Janata Party, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Indian National Congress, All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), United People’s Party Liberal, and the Bodoland People’s Front.
The Commission allowed each political party to express their perspectives, concerns, and recommendations, focusing on conducting the upcoming Assembly elections in a transparent, free, and impartial manner.
As per the ECI, most political parties preferred that the elections occur in a single phase or, at most, in two phases. They also urged the Commission to consider the Bihu festival when determining the election schedule.
Throughout these discussions, political parties generally expressed satisfaction with the Special Revision of the Electoral Rolls in Assam and provided suggestions for ensuring a peaceful and orderly election process across the state.
After the discussions with political parties, the Commission convened a detailed review meeting with Inspector Generals, Deputy Inspector Generals, District Election Officers (DEOs), and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs).
The meeting addressed all crucial elements of election preparedness, including election planning, EVM management, logistics, training of election personnel, seizures, law and order measures, voter awareness initiatives, and outreach activities.
CEC Gyanesh Kumar emphasized that the elections should be conducted strictly following the Constitution of India, pertinent electoral laws, and the instructions of the Election Commission.
The Commission instructed all DEOs, SSPs, and the state administration to act with complete impartiality and ensure timely resolution of any issues raised by political parties.
Furthermore, the ECI urged officials to make concerted efforts to create a welcoming voting atmosphere, ensuring polling stations are festive, inviting, and voter-friendly.
Additionally, all DEOs and Superintendents of Police were directed to closely monitor social media for misinformation and to take swift legal action as needed.