New Delhi: In a significant move to streamline poll day arrangements and enhance voter convenience, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced two new initiatives the provision of mobile deposit facilities for voters at polling stations and the rationalisation of norms for canvassing.
In a statement issued to news agency JKNS reads, these measures are in line with the Representation of the People Act, 1951 and the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961. Recognising the increasing use of mobile phones, especially among senior citizens, women, and PwD electors, the ECI will now allow a mobile deposit facility just outside polling stations. Voters will be required to deposit their switched-off phones in designated pigeonhole boxes or jute bags near the entrance. Mobile phones will not be allowed inside polling stations.
However, exemptions may be granted by the Returning Officer under adverse local circumstances. Rule 49M of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, regarding voting secrecy, will remain strictly enforced.
Additionally, the ECI has rationalised canvassing norms by restricting all canvassing activity within 100 meters of polling station entrances. On poll day, electioneering will not be permitted within a 100-meter radius around any polling station. Candidates’ booths for unofficial voter identity slips will also need to be located beyond this radius unless voters are without official Voter Information Slips (VIS) issued by the Commission, it reads.
These reforms are led under the chairmanship of Chief Election Commissioner Shri Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi. The Commission reiterated its commitment to legal compliance and innovation for improved voter experience, reads the statement. (JKNS)
