What Innovative Steps Did the ECI Take in the By-Polls?
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Synopsis
On June 19, the Election Commission of India introduced groundbreaking initiatives in the by-elections, including a mobile deposit facility and full webcasting of polling stations. These steps aim to modernize the electoral process and enhance voter convenience, ensuring a transparent and efficient election experience.
Key Takeaways
- Mobile deposit facility for easy phone storage.
- Improved voter turnout reporting for timely updates.
- 100% webcasting ensures transparency.
- Special Summary Revision of electoral rolls enhances accuracy.
- Innovative steps pave the way for future elections.
New Delhi, June 19 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced several groundbreaking initiatives during the recent by-elections aimed at enhancing and modernizing the electoral process, with a strong focus on voter convenience.
Among the measures implemented for the first time were the mobile deposit facility available at all polling stations, an improved voter turnout reporting process, and the complete webcasting of polling stations to ensure vigilant oversight of the electoral process. Additionally, a Special Summary Revision (SSR) of the electoral rolls was conducted prior to the bye-polls, marking the first such effort in nearly two decades.
These innovative measures were conceptualized and launched by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi in recent months.
The by-elections took place in the assembly constituencies of 24-Kadi (SC) and 87-Visavadar in Gujarat, 35-Nilambur in Kerala, 64-Ludhiana West in Punjab, and 80-Kaliganj in West Bengal. Voting occurred at 1354 polling stations across these five constituencies.
The introduction of these initiatives in the by-elections sets the stage for their full implementation in the upcoming Bihar Assembly Elections.
For the first time, voters were able to utilize the mobile deposit facility provided by the ECI at the entrances of all polling stations, acknowledging the widespread use of mobile phones in both urban and rural settings. This initiative particularly assists senior citizens, women, and voters with disabilities who often face challenges regarding where to store their mobile phones before casting their votes.
Simple pigeonhole boxes or jute bags were made available at the polling station entrances for voters to deposit their mobile devices, with volunteers present to facilitate this process.
The upgraded Voter Turnout Reporting (VTR) process was also effectively implemented, allowing Presiding Officers at each polling station to directly input voter turnout data into the new ECINET App every two hours on polling day, significantly reducing delays in updating polling trends. This data was automatically aggregated at the constituency level, with approximate voting percentages published every two hours as before.
The Commission also ensured 100% webcasting of poll-day activities at all polling stations, except for one, in the five bye-poll constituencies. This webcasting was closely monitored to ensure that key activities ran smoothly without any violations of the electoral process. Dedicated monitoring teams at the levels of RO, DEO, and CEO maintained strict vigilance over the polling proceedings.
Point of View
I view these initiatives by the Election Commission as a commendable step towards improving the electoral process in India. By prioritizing voter convenience and implementing technology-driven solutions, the ECI showcases its commitment to a transparent and efficient electoral system, thereby enhancing public trust in democracy.
NationPress
19/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mobile deposit facility introduced by ECI?
The mobile deposit facility allows voters to securely deposit their mobile phones at polling station entrances, ensuring convenience and security for individuals, particularly senior citizens and those with disabilities.
How does the Voter Turnout Reporting (VTR) process work?
The VTR process enables Presiding Officers to enter voter turnout data directly into the ECINET App every two hours, allowing for timely updates on polling trends.
What measures were taken to monitor the polling process?
The Election Commission ensured 100% webcasting of polling activities, monitored by dedicated teams at various levels to uphold the integrity of the election process.
Why is the Special Summary Revision (SSR) significant?
The SSR is crucial as it updates the electoral rolls for the first time in nearly two decades, ensuring that the voter base is current and representative.
What regions had by-elections during this initiative?
By-elections were conducted in Gujarat, Kerala, Punjab, and West Bengal, covering five assembly constituencies.
