The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced its readiness for the sixth phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, scheduled for tomorrow, May 25, 2024. This phase will witness polling across 58 parliamentary constituencies spanning eight states and union territories, including Haryana, the National Capital Territory of Delhi, Bihar, Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
In a significant development, 42 Assembly Constituencies in Odisha will also go to polls simultaneously with the Lok Sabha elections in the state.
Ensuring Voter Convenience and Security
To mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions, the ECI has instructed District Election Officers and state machinery to implement measures to counter the effects of hot weather or rainfall where predicted. Polling stations have been equipped with essential facilities such as shade, drinking water, ramps, and toilets to ensure a comfortable and secure voting experience for all electors.
Polling parties have been dispatched to their respective stations with all necessary equipment and materials to facilitate the voting process seamlessly.
Encouraging Voter Participation
The Election Commission has issued a clarion call to voters, urging them to actively participate in the electoral process and exercise their right to vote responsibly. Special emphasis has been placed on urban centers like Delhi, Gurgaon, and Faridabad, where the ECI aims to break the trend of urban apathy and encourage higher voter turnout.
Comprehensive Arrangements
To ensure smooth and peaceful polling, the ECI has deployed approximately 11.4 lakh polling officials across 1.14 lakh polling stations to facilitate voting for over 11.13 crore eligible voters. The voter demographic includes 5.84 crore males, 5.29 crore females, and 5,120 third-gender electors.
Recognizing the needs of the elderly and persons with disabilities (PwD), the ECI has made special arrangements. Over 8.93 lakh voters aged 85 and above, including 23,659 centenarians, and 9.58 lakh PwD voters have the option to exercise their franchise from the comfort of their homes through the home voting facility.
Robust Monitoring and Security Measures
To ensure free and fair elections, the ECI has deployed a total of 184 Observers, including 66 General Observers, 35 Police Observers, and 83 Expenditure Observers, who will act as the Commission’s eyes and ears to maintain vigilance. Special Observers have been positioned in certain states. Surveillance measures include the deployment of 2,222 Flying Squads, 2,295 Static Surveillance Teams, 819 Video Surveillance Teams, and 569 Video Viewing Teams to swiftly address any instances of voter inducement.
Strict monitoring is in place at 257 international border check posts and 927 inter-state border check posts to curb the illicit flow of liquor, drugs, cash, and freebies. Surveillance extends to sea and air routes as well.
Facilitating Informed Voting
The ECI has distributed Voter Information Slips to all registered voters, serving as an invitation to exercise their franchise. Voters can also check polling station details and poll dates through the Commission’s online portal.
Additionally, twelve alternative documents other than the Voter ID card (EPIC) are accepted for identity verification at polling stations, ensuring no eligible voter is disenfranchised. The final phase of the General Elections 2024, Phase 7, is scheduled for June 1, covering the remaining 57 constituencies. The counting of votes will take place on June 4. With meticulous preparations and robust arrangements, the Election Commission of India aims to ensure a free, fair, and inclusive electoral process for Phase 6 of the Lok Sabha elections.
