The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) on Saturday reviewed the poll preparations for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections in Patna, the poll panel said in a statement.
CEC Gyanesh Kumar led a delegation that included Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, and met with representatives of 12 recognized national and state political parties to discuss election-related issues and gather feedback.
“Political parties are a significant stakeholder of a strong democracy,” CEC said, urging them to fully participate in the election process by appointing polling and counting agents. He encouraged the parties to celebrate the elections in a festive spirit along with the voters.
During the meetings, parties suggested that the elections be scheduled immediately after the Chhath festival and completed in as few phases as possible to maximize voter participation.
The parties praised the Commission’s initiatives, such as limiting the maximum number of voters per polling station to 1,200 and ensuring the counting of postal ballot votes is completed before the penultimate round of EVM counting.
Following the interaction with political parties, the Commission also reviewed election preparedness with top officials, including Commissioners, IGs, DIGs, DEOs, SSPs, and SPs. The review covered various aspects, such as:
a) Ensuring the smooth conduct of elections using Electronic Voting Machines.
b) Managing the transportation and storage of election materials.
c) Ensuring polling stations are accessible and well-managed.
d) Educating voters about the election process and promoting participation.
The Commission directed officials to act with complete impartiality, ensure prompt resolution of complaints and grievances, and monitor social media for fake news. CEC Gyanesh Kumar emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.