Will the ECI Team Meet with DEOs Tomorrow to Discuss Polling Booths in Housing Complexes?
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Synopsis
A central team from the ECI is arriving in Kolkata to engage with DEOs on the implementation of polling booths in housing complexes. This initiative aims to enhance voter accessibility in the upcoming Assembly elections. With a focus on high-rise buildings, the Commission seeks to address political concerns while ensuring efficient election processes.
Key Takeaways
- ECI's initiative aims to enhance voter access.
- Meetings focus on high-rise housing complexes.
- DEOs must conduct thorough surveys by December 31.
- Political party suggestions are not to be considered.
- Improved polling booth locations may increase voter turnout.
Kolkata, Dec 29 (NationPress) A central delegation from the Election Commission of India (ECI), led by Deputy Election Commissioner Gyanesh Bharti, is set to convene with district magistrates, also known as District Electoral Officers (DEOs), on Tuesday. The purpose of these meetings is to deliberate on the execution of the Commission’s strategy to establish polling booths within housing complexes that feature high-rise buildings for the upcoming Assembly elections scheduled for next year.
Bharti and his team plan to arrive in Kolkata from Delhi on Tuesday morning. In the afternoon, he will engage with DEOs from the neighboring districts of North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas to address the operational aspects of the proposal concerning the placement of polling booths inside private housing complexes containing tall structures.
The discussion will take place at the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal. CEO Manoj Kumar Agarwal is expected to be present, according to an official confirmation from the CEO’s office.
Earlier this month, the ECI instructed all DEOs to disregard recommendations from political entities regarding the selection of suitable private housing complexes that might accommodate polling booths.
This advisory was prompted by differing opinions expressed by various political parties concerning the establishment of polling booths within private housing complexes.
Previously, the Commission had voiced strong dissatisfaction over not receiving any proposals from district magistrates and DEOs identifying potential high-rise private housing complexes for polling booth placements.
In a separate communication issued earlier this month, the ECI mandated that following the publication of the draft electoral roll on December 16, all DEOs should promptly survey high-rise buildings, group housing societies, resident welfare associations (RWAs), slums, and gated communities with at least 250 houses or 500 voters. The survey should include an evaluation of ground-floor room availability and identify appropriate locations for polling stations.
The Commission also directed the CEO's office to ensure the completion of this entire exercise by December 31.
Point of View
The initiative by the Election Commission of India to establish polling booths within high-rise housing complexes underscores its commitment to ensuring voter accessibility and participation in the electoral process. While political opinions may vary, the focus on practical implementation is crucial for facilitating smooth elections.
NationPress
05/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the ECI meetings with DEOs?
The ECI meetings with DEOs aim to discuss the establishment of polling booths in high-rise housing complexes for the upcoming Assembly elections.
Who is leading the ECI team in Kolkata?
The ECI team in Kolkata is led by Deputy Election Commissioner Gyanesh Bharti.
What are the criteria for selecting housing complexes for polling booths?
Housing complexes considered for polling booths must have multiple high-rise towers and accommodate at least 250 houses or 500 voters.
When is the deadline for completing the survey of housing complexes?
The deadline for completing the survey of housing complexes is December 31.
What was the ECI's advisory regarding political party suggestions?
The ECI advised DEOs to completely disregard suggestions from political parties about suitable housing complexes for polling booths.
