The Election Commission of India (ECI) concluded a two-day interaction session with over 1,000 Central Observers designated for several upcoming state elections. Discussions at the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management focused on ensuring the fairness and integrity of the electoral process. Central Observers were briefed on various aspects of election preparation, including electoral rolls, election expenditure, and Information Technology.
The Central Observers received a demonstration of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and were updated on new tools and techniques being introduced in elections. The session, held in three batches, involved 1,444 officers, including general observers, police observers, and expenditure observers. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar emphasized the importance of adhering to ECI norms and guidelines for conducting elections with zero-tolerance for deviations.
CEC Gyanesh Kumar highlighted the introduction of new initiatives in the upcoming polls, stressing the need for free, fair, and transparent elections. Election Commissioner S.S. Sandhu underscored the significant responsibility of the central observers in upholding high standards of conduct. Election Commissioner Vivek Joshi urged the observers to promptly address grievances and complaints to enhance trust in the electoral process and briefed them on recent initiatives by the poll panel.
The ECI appoints central observers during Assembly and Parliamentary elections under its constitutional powers to ensure the conduct of free and fair polls.
