Assembly polls: EC deploys over 400 observers in in J&K, Haryana

NEW DELHI: The Election Commission on Thursday directed the over 400 observers being deployed to watch assembly polls in J&K and Haryana, to remain accessible, visible and responsive to all stakeholders, besides being vigilant towards any false narratives aimed at derailing the poll process.

Briefing the 200 general observers, 100 police observers and 100 expenditure observers drawn from IAS, IPS and other services, chief election commissioner Rajiv Kumar along with election commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and S S Sandhu emphasised their critical and important role in their allotted constituencies in poll-bound J&K ans Haryana.

Sensitising the observers regarding EC’s new initiatives and directions, the commission “strictly directed” them to remain accessible to all parties, candidates and voters for timely redressal of their grievances. Any complaints in this regard shall be viewed seriously by the Commission, they were told.

The CEC reiterated the need for all observers to conduct themselves professionally and overcome the language barrier to ensure that there are no gaps in communication. Stating that the observers too are watched by parties, candidates, voters and the Commission alike, Kumar asked them to be particularly vigilant towards false narratives and counter them with timely action.

Election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in his address emphasised that role of the observers becomes all the more critical since assembly polls are keenly contested. Election commissioner Sandhu stated that accessibility, visibility and responsiveness of observers are essential to develop a virtuous spiral, enhancing the conduct of the elections.

EC asked details like mobile/ landline numbers/ email addresses/ places of stay etc of observers to be publicised on chief electoral officer and district websites; and through electronic/ print media.
These details, it said, must be circulated among candidates and recognised political parties by DEOs/ ROs on the day of arrival of observers in their respective constituencies.

Observers were also directed to watch the meetings of candidates and political parties being convened by DEOs/ ROs and see to it that their grievances are properly addressed.

Observers were instructed to provide direct inputs to the Commission from the field as an interface with the election machinery, the candidates, political parties, and electors.

“Observers should visit polling stations and ensure availability of facilities, especially ramps and wheelchair,” EC emphasised.
NEW DELHI
During the day-long briefing sessions, the officers were given comprehensive and thorough inputs about the various aspects of election management by senior EC officials. Detailed thematic presentations were made on election planning, observers’ roles and responsibilities, electoral roll issues, enforcement of model code, election expenditure monitoring, legal provisions, and EVM/VVPAT management. The observers were also acquainted with the various IT initiatives and mobile applications of the Commission for voter facilitation and election management.
Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.