What Did South Africa’s Poll Body Chief Say About India’s Election Process?
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Synopsis
In a significant gesture, South Africa's Electoral Commission Chairperson Mosotho Moepya congratulated India's Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar for the Bihar elections, highlighting the global interest in India's electoral system. With nearly 75 million voters, this election exemplifies democratic engagement on a grand scale.
Key Takeaways
- International recognition of India's electoral process.
- Over 75 million eligible voters participating in Bihar elections.
- Establishment of model booths for inclusive voting.
- Deployment of substantial security forces to ensure safe polling.
- Global cooperation through the IEVP.
New Delhi, Nov 6 (NationPress) On Thursday, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar received an unexpected call from Mosotho Moepya, the Chairperson of South Africa’s Electoral Commission, who conveyed his greetings for the Bihar elections. This election represents one of the world's largest democratic undertakings, featuring nearly 75 million eligible voters.
Moepya mentioned that South African lawmakers are planning a visit to India soon to learn more about the country's electoral management system, which is frequently praised as one of the most transparent and efficient worldwide.
This call coincided with the first phase of the Bihar assembly elections.
In this initial phase, approximately 3.75 crore voters will determine the electoral fate of 1,314 candidates, including prominent figures like Tejashwi Yadav, the chief ministerial candidate of the INDIA bloc, and Samrat Choudhary, the Deputy CM from the BJP.
The second phase of Bihar assembly elections is scheduled for November 11.
To promote free, fair, inclusive, and transparent elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has established 320 model booths, 926 stations managed by women, and 107 booths managed by individuals with disabilities.
Robust security measures are in place to ensure a smooth polling process, with over 15 battalions of police and paramilitary forces deployed across 18 districts, focusing on sensitive and Naxal-affected areas where voting will conclude an hour earlier, at 5 p.m. Mock polling exercises were held early in the morning to verify systems ahead of voting.
Significantly, the ECI welcomed 16 delegates from six nations under its International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) today.
This initiative, designed to enhance global cooperation and transparency in electoral processes, included participants from Colombia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Belgium, and South Africa, who observed the arrangements for one of the world's largest democratic exercises.
According to the ECI, the IEVP 2025 commenced earlier this week at the India International Institute for Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) in New Delhi on November 4.
The inaugural session was presided over by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioner Vivek Joshi, who engaged with the visiting delegates and provided insights into India’s robust electoral framework.
During their time in Delhi, participants received comprehensive presentations on the operation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), voter roll management, and logistical readiness.
Point of View
I affirm that the recognition of India's election process by international bodies underscores our commitment to democratic principles. The Bihar elections are not just a local affair; they represent a beacon of democratic engagement that resonates globally. It is vital for us to uphold the values of transparency and inclusiveness in our electoral practices.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Bihar elections?
The Bihar elections are significant as they involve nearly 75 million eligible voters, making it one of the largest democratic exercises globally.
Who is Mosotho Moepya?
Mosotho Moepya is the Chairperson of South Africa’s Electoral Commission, who recently congratulated India on its electoral process.
What does the International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) entail?
The IEVP is an initiative that promotes global cooperation and transparency in electoral processes, welcoming international delegates to observe India’s electoral management.
How is security managed during the Bihar elections?
Security is managed through the deployment of over 15 battalions of police and paramilitary forces across 18 districts, focusing on sensitive areas to ensure safe polling.
What measures are in place for inclusive voting?
The ECI has set up 320 model booths, 926 women-managed stations, and 107 booths for persons with disabilities to promote inclusive voting.
