Will ECI Host a National Conference of State Election Commissioners on February 24?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Feb 4 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to organize a National Conference of State Election Commissioners (SECs) on February 24 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, according to an official announcement made on Wednesday.
State Election Commissioners from every State and Union Territory are anticipated to attend this event, which marks the first such gathering in over 25 years, with the previous National SEC Conference held in 1999.
The conference will be presided over by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alongside Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi. They will address the State Election Commissioners during the opening session.
As per the announcement, attendees will include not only State Election Commissioners but also their legal and technical advisors. Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) from all 36 States and Union Territories will also be present for the discussions.
The main aim of the conference is to foster a better collaboration between the ECI and the State Election Commissions in managing elections, electoral processes, and logistical arrangements while respecting their unique constitutional and legal responsibilities.
Participants will delve into focused discussions on critical topics such as electoral laws concerning voter eligibility in States and Union Territories, technological advancements introduced by the ECI, like the recently unveiled ECINET digital platform, the application of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and other emerging challenges in election management.
The ECI also plans to share its institutional insights regarding the preparation of electoral rolls and the organization of elections, adhering to the Constitution of India and the nation's legal framework, to assist and fortify State Election Commissions.
State Election Commissions are established under State laws in line with the provisions of the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, and they hold the authority over the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of elections for Panchayats and Municipal Bodies.