The Election Commission (EC) has issued a series of strict directives following a significant Systemic Improvement Review (SIR) meeting, aiming to uphold the fairness and integrity of the electoral process. These orders specifically target the prevention of intimidation or undue influence on booth officials and other state government employees deployed for election-related duties. The EC has made it clear that all stakeholders must adhere. To these guidelines to ensure free and fair elections across the board.
Refutation of Trinamool Congress Allegations
During the SIR meeting, a delegation from the All India Trinamool Congress presented certain apprehensions and allegations to the Election Commission. The EC meticulously refuted all these apprehensions and every unfounded allegation point-by-point. The Commission underscored its commitment to maintaining transparency and impartiality in the electoral process. The EC requested the Trinamool Congress to submit their claims and objections after December 9, when the draft list would be shared with them. This established procedure is an integral part of the electoral system, providing all. Political parties with a legitimate channel to raise their concerns and ensure due process.
Directives to DGP and Police Commissioner
The Election Commission has particularly stressed that there should be no interference in the independent functioning of state government employees, Booth Level Officers (BLOs), Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), and District Election Officers (DEOs) who are deputed for election-related tasks, while bLOs play a crucial role in updating the electoral rolls, while EROs and DEOs are responsible for the overall management and supervision of the election process. Their ability to work independently is paramount to ensuring accurate voter lists and an election process free from bias. Any form of pressure or threat can disrupt their work, thereby compromising the credibility of the electoral exercise.
In a significant move, the Election Commission has also written to the Director General of Police (DGP) of West Bengal and the Commissioner of Kolkata Police. The letter instructs them to ensure that Booth Level Officers (BLOs). Aren't subjected to pressure or threats by political party workers. This step has been taken to safeguard the security and independent functioning of BLOs, who are often on the front lines, interacting directly with voters and potentially facing political pressure, while the police are mandated to ensure that BLOs can perform their duties without fear or favour, which is critical for a healthy democratic process.
Establishment of New Polling Stations
To enhance voter accessibility and convenience, the Election Commission has directed all District Election Officers to ensure the establishment of new polling stations in slums, high-rise buildings, and gated residential colonies. This directive is being implemented across India based on the EC's instructions, aiming to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their residential area, can easily exercise their right to vote. This initiative will help mitigate difficulties faced by voters in urban and densely populated areas in reaching polling stations, potentially leading to an increase in voter turnout and greater inclusivity.
Security of Chief Electoral Officer's Office
Taking serious note of recent incidents of security breaches at the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal, the Election Commission has directed that the office be relocated to a more secure location. This measure is essential to ensure the safety of critical election-related data and personnel. On top of that, the Election Commission has instructed the Kolkata Police Commissioner to ensure comprehensive security for both the existing and the new office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal, while this will guarantee that the CEO's office, which serves as a central hub for the electoral process, can operate without any external interference or security threats. Through these comprehensive directives, the Election Commission has reiterated its unwavering commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and secure electoral environment.
