Kolkata: Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar stated on Tuesday that the Election Commission’s primary objective is to ensure the participation of all voters in the upcoming assembly elections without violence or intimidation.
Following a two-day review meeting on election preparations in West Bengal, the Election Commission Chief stated in a press conference that the Commission has directed law enforcement officials in the state to strictly enforce the rule of law without fear or favor.
Kumar stated at the press conference that democracy is deeply entrenched in West Bengal and that voter turnout in the state has been very high. He stated that voters and the general public respect the Constitution and believe in peaceful and participatory elections. He further stated that the Commission appeals to all voters in the state to ensure that voting takes place in a violence-free and intimidating environment.
Gyanesh Kumar also surprised everyone by quoting the Election Commission’s slogan, “Chunav Porbo, Paschimbanger Gorbo” (Election season is the pride of West Bengal). The CEC stated that law enforcement agencies have been instructed to operate with “complete impartiality” and ensure that cash, alcohol, narcotics, and banned substances remain off-limits. He stated that if any violence or intimidation occurs against voters or polling staff, strict action will be taken against the perpetrators, regardless of who or what party they belong to.
However, the Chief Election Commissioner did not specify how many phases the West Bengal Assembly elections will be held in. Speaking about post-poll violence in previous elections in the state, he said that some of those accused of such incidents have already been punished. The remaining cases are also being reviewed and action will be taken against them soon.
Highlights from Gyanesh Kumar’s press conference:
There will be over 80,000 booths in West Bengal, with no more than 1,200 voters per booth.
Each booth will have a voter assistance center and 100% webcasting.
This time, EVMs will have color photographs of candidates. If desired, EVMs can be tested within seven days of the election’s conclusion.
Special officers in each assembly constituency will be responsible for promoting young voters.
For the convenience of elderly voters, all booths will be single-story, equipped with wheelchairs and ramps. Voters over 85 years of age can vote from home if they wish.
There will be the option to leave mobile phones outside during voting. All information related to voting and voter turnout can be found on the ECI.net app. He also stated that presiding officers will announce the voting rate every two hours to convey a message of transparency.
Gyanesh Kumar assured a fear-free election in West Bengal. He claimed that the full commission bench had reviewed the law and order situation in the state over the past two days. Gyanesh Kumar said that yesterday the state government, the chief secretary, state police and administrative officials, and various political parties assured him of a peaceful election.
