The meeting was presided over by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioner Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi.
Photo: X/@ECISVEEP
The Election Commission on Friday convened a critical video conference with 348 observers deployed across both phases of the upcoming election to the Bihar Legislative Assembly.
The meeting was presided over by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioner Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi.
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The virtual gathering aimed at reviewing the preparedness and compliance with voter facilitation measures to ensure a seamless and pleasant experience for voters on polling day.
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The Commission undertook a comprehensive assessment of various aspects, including enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), management of border check posts, and the timely curbing of fake news and misinformation.
Significant focus was placed on proactive dissemination of electoral information, identification and security arrangements for vulnerable and critical polling stations, and efficient complaint redressal through the 1950 toll-free number.
Observers were also briefed on handling cases reported via the c-VIGIL app and ensuring the security of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) stored in strong rooms.
The Commission emphasized strict maintenance of law and order, including the full deposition of licensed arms and seizure of illegal weapons, to maintain a safe environment for the polls.
Among recent technological and procedural initiatives reviewed were the Mobile Phone Deposit facility, the introduction of newly designed Voter Information Slips (VIS), and the popularization of the ECINet App with its extensive services.
The Commission also reiterated the importance of 100 percent webcasting of polling stations and mandated the submission of approximate voter turnout reports every two hours.
The observers comprise a diverse team including 121 General Observers, 18 Police Observers, and 33 Expenditure Observers for the first phase, alongside 122 General Observers, 20 Police Observers, and 34 Expenditure Observers for the second phase.
The Election Commission urged the observers to ensure that the election machinery fosters a festive and encouraging atmosphere, motivating voters to participate enthusiastically and in large numbers to strengthen the democratic process in Bihar.
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