Ensuring a Smooth Election Process: Haryana’s Preparations for the Upcoming Assembly Elections

As Haryana gears up for the Assembly elections on October 5, Chief Electoral Officer Pankaj Agarwal is taking steps to ensure a transparent and efficient voting process. In a recent video conference with Deputy Commissioners and District Election Officers from Chandigarh, Agarwal outlined key measures for the electoral process. He emphasized the importance of technology and strict adherence to regulations.

Monitoring and Oversight

To enhance oversight, Agarwal has established control rooms at the state, district, and assembly levels. These control rooms will monitor webcasting at polling stations, allowing for real-time tracking of the voting process. The Election Commission of India will also oversee the webcasting to ensure that the elections remain fair and free of irregularities.

Key Election Dates

The elections will fill Haryana‘s 90-member legislative assembly, with the counting of votes scheduled for October 8. As the election date approaches, authorities are committed to maintaining strict protocols at polling stations.

Strict Regulations for Polling Agents

Agarwal has made it clear that polling agents can only engage in authorized activities on polling day. Any involvement in prohibited actions will result in strict legal consequences. He has issued detailed guidelines to ensure compliance with electoral regulations.

Heightened Vigilance

Agarwal stresses the need for heightened vigilance at checkpoints to prevent the transportation of illegal liquor, narcotics, cash, and weapons during the election period. He urges district monitoring teams to intensify their efforts, ensuring a secure environment for voters.

Security of Electronic Voting Machines

Agarwal mandates that authorities must securely store Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in strong rooms until their transfer to polling booths. After voting, officials will implement adequate security measures for transporting EVMs. Vehicles carrying EVMs must not stop during transit and should be equipped with GPS for added security.

Ensuring Accessibility and Safety

Polling stations must provide wheelchairs for voters with disabilities. Authorities must also arrange drinking water, electricity, and seating for the elderly, persons with disabilities, and women in case of long queues.

Additionally, officers must submit daily reports on home voting by individuals over the age of 85, persons with disabilities, and postal ballots cast by employees on duty. Authorities will closely monitor the Electronic Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPB) used by service voters to ensure accountability.

Maximizing Voter Awareness

With just few days left until voting, Agarwal highlights the importance of maximizing voter awareness. Engaging voters and providing information about voting rights and procedures are crucial for achieving a high turnout.

Consequences for Inappropriate Behavior

Finally, Agarwal warns that legal action will follow anyone found behaving inappropriately inside polling stations. His commitment to maintaining order and integrity underscores the seriousness of the upcoming elections.

As Haryana prepares for this crucial democratic exercise, the emphasis on security, transparency, and accessibility serves as a reminder of the vital role that free and fair elections play in shaping the state’s future.