A high-level delegation of the Election Commission of India (ECI), headed by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, reached Guwahati on Monday to take stock of the preparations for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections.
The delegation includes Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, who will participate in a series of review meetings with state officials and other stakeholders.
In an official statement, the ECI said the visit is part of a comprehensive assessment of election readiness in the northeastern state. “The Commission will hold detailed meetings with senior state officials, including the Chief Electoral Officer, District Election Officers, Superintendent of Police and other stakeholders to review poll preparedness for the forthcoming Assam Assembly Elections,” the statement said.
During the visit, the Commission is expected to examine key areas such as revision of electoral rolls, availability and deployment of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units, training of polling personnel, law and order arrangements, and measures to ensure adherence to the Model Code of Conduct.
Officials added that the delegation will also meet representatives of recognised political parties to gather feedback and address concerns related to the conduct of free and fair elections.
The Assam Assembly elections are likely to be held around March–April this year, with political activity already gaining momentum across the state. The 2021 Assembly elections recorded a high voter turnout and witnessed an intense contest, highlighting Assam’s political importance in the region.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, the Commission said it aims to conduct the polls in a transparent, inclusive and peaceful manner. “The Commission is committed to ensuring that every eligible voter is able to exercise their franchise freely and fearlessly,” the statement added.
The detailed election schedule is expected to be announced after the Commission concludes its review meetings in Guwahati.