The Election Commission of India is on track for the highest ever seizures of inducements in the 75-year history of Lok Sabha elections in the country.
With General Elections 2024 underway, the enforcement agencies have made a record seizure of over Rs. 4650 crores which is a significant rise from the Rs 3475 crores seized during the entire Lok Sabha election in 2019. A significant part of these seizures have been made in Rajasthan.
Praveen Gupta, Chief Electoral Officer, Ex-Officio Principal Secretary, Election Department, Government of Rajasthan, in conversation with ETGovernment, sheds light on the steps that the ECI is taking in Rajasthan to ensure free, fair and smooth General Election 2024.
Edited excerpts:
How is the experience of managing the General Election 2024 in Rajasthan different from the elections that you have managed earlier?
The procedures for the elections remain the same, except for a new addition this year—the Election Duty Certificate (EDC). Unlike postal ballots, where our polling party can vote through Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the booth itself, EDC allows for this process differently. Additionally, the Lok Sabha elections span from one district to another, requiring careful coordination and management of the EVM movement. For instance, VMs from Shiroi will go to Jalore, and from Parker to Dholpur, necessitating thorough planning and logistics management. Ensuring the security of the EVMs is a priority, and we track every one of them during transportation. We do not move them without a police escort, and extra vehicles are available in case of breakdowns to minimize any disruptions.You have introduced some innovative measures in previous elections. What is your focus on innovation in these elections?
We always leverage technology for process reengineering. For example, we are implementing inter-district postal ballots for the first time, which is a significant undertaking. We have developed the Postal Buddy app for this purpose. Additionally, we have introduced queue management apps to streamline the voting process. The introduction of the C-Vigil app ensures swift handling of complaints, with an impressive average resolution time of 24-25 minutes, well within the Election Commission’s standard. Integration of various IT platforms enables efficient monitoring and management of activities such as roadshows, Quick Response Teams (QRTs), and striking forces. By utilizing technology and interconnected systems, we aim to enhance response times and overall efficiency.Security of the EVMs has always been a concern during elections. How do you address this issue? There have been reports of various violations while managing the movement of EVMs. How do you handle such situations?
We employ stringent security protocols for EVMs, including tracking their movement, police escort during transportation, and maintaining backup vehicles for contingencies. Our focus on real-time monitoring and swift response mechanisms ensures the safety and integrity of the electoral process. We prioritize adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and maintain close coordination with law enforcement agencies. Any violations are swiftly addressed through a combination of tracking, enforcement, and collaboration with relevant authorities. Our emphasis remains on upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
Engaging with various agencies and departments can be challenging during elections. How do you manage this aspect?
I am pleased to report that we have achieved significant success in curbing malpractices during these elections. Through coordinated efforts and robust monitoring mechanisms, we have seized a record number of illegal items, totaling over 800 crores. This achievement underscores our commitment to maintaining a level playing field and upholding the sanctity of the electoral process. Effective coordination and information sharing among different departments and agencies are paramount. We prioritize intelligence sharing and joint operations to address challenges collectively. By fostering a culture of collaboration and adherence to established protocols, we ensure seamless coordination and cooperation among all stakeholders.
Encouraging voter participation, especially among new and marginalized demographics, is crucial. How do you engage with such voters?
We employ a multi-faceted approach to encourage voter participation, including targeted outreach campaigns, leveraging social media platforms, and incentivizing voting through initiatives such as early voting certificates and voter assistance programs. By actively engaging with diverse communities and addressing their specific needs, we strive to promote inclusive and representative democracy. We prioritize amenities such as drinking water, shaded areas, and seating arrangements to ensure the comfort of voters, particularly during hot weather. Additionally, we provide assistance and accommodations for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups to facilitate their participation in the electoral process. By creating a welcoming and accessible environment, we aim to encourage greater voter turnout and engagement.
Combating fake news and disinformation is a significant challenge in the digital age. How do you address this issue? How do candidates and political parties cooperate with you in ensuring free and fair elections?
We have established robust mechanisms to counter fake news and disinformation, including dedicated teams for monitoring and fact-checking. Through proactive engagement with social media platforms and swift action to remove or debunk false information, we strive to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that voters are well-informed. Candidates and political parties are required to adhere to the Model Code of Conduct and relevant guidelines set forth by the Election Commission. This includes transparency in campaign expenditures, compliance with legal requirements, and obtaining necessary permissions for campaign activities. We maintain close oversight and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance and address any violations promptly.
What has been your personal experience conducting back-to-back major elections, and what message do you have for the voters?
My experience has been one of immense dedication and teamwork, with a singular focus on ensuring the integrity and inclusivity of the electoral process. I am grateful for the tireless efforts of our team and the support of various stakeholders in upholding democratic values. My message to the voters is simple: every vote matters. By exercising your right to vote, you contribute to the strength and vitality of our democracy. Let us all participate enthusiastically in this celebration of democracy and make our voices heard.
What are the measures that the Election Commission has taken to simplify the voting process and increase voter participation?
The Election Commission of India has initiated the inclusion of Information Technology to not just simplify the voting process, but make it more transparent. The Commission’s logo for this election is Chunav ka Parv Desh ka Garv. To meet this objective Major awareness campaigns have been initiated at all levels addressing various issues. Special arrangements and facilities are being extended for the PWDs, PVTGs, Transgender, elderly voters, Youth, and Women. Different 21 departments have been converged to spread awareness among voters at polling station level. Several activities are being strengthened through Electoral Literacy Clubs (ELC) in schools, colleges, and booth levels. Advanced enrolment of the prospective voters has been done for 17+ years.
How are you deploying information technology for managing the electoral process?
The Election Commission has introduced several IT applications, namely Voter Helpline App, SAKSHAM-ECI, KYC, c-Vigil, Suvidha Portal, ENCORE and ERONet to ease the process for use of public as well administration at various stages. We have received 100% of applications for enrolment of voters via online medium, either through the mobile app or through the Voter Service Portal (VSP). Also, various administrative permissions, approvals, and sanctions are being granted through the Suvidha portal. As of date, 2,340 requests have been received on this portal for different permits and authorizations.
How has the Election Department of Rajasthan utilized innovations and initiatives such as the c-VIGIL App to enhance voter engagement and streamline the electoral process during the General Elections?
Rajasthan started a campaign for awareness about the c-Vigil app in a planned way at a very early stage. c-VIGIL training app was popularized through the police department WhatsApp group up to Thana and Beat level. As a result of which we started receiving complaints as soon as the Model Code of Conduct came into force. As of now, We have received 3,359 of which 1,444 were found correct and were resolved well before the stipulated time limit of 100 minutes.
What provisions have been made for home voting and postal ballots to accommodate voters who may not be able to visit polling stations?
‘No Voter to be Left Behind’. We are rigorously following this slogan of the ECI. To fulfill the purpose of inclusive elections, home voting, and postal ballot facilities have been initiated. During State Assembly Elections PWD and 80+ aged voters availed of home voting facility in great numbers and of the total registered for this 99% exercised their franchise. Now, in the Lok Sabha Election despite the age limit being restricted to 85+ for the elderly persons to avail of home voting, the overall number of voters opting for this facility has increased. This time 58,670 AVSC (85+) and 17,421 AVPD (PwD more than 40% disability) will be facilitated with a home voting facility. This is evident in the success of our campaign and increased awareness amongst the voters.
Regarding postal ballots, Rajasthan has included 11 services as ‘essential’ for the first time in which Media persons are also included. A total of 2,477 Postal ballots are issued to employees of these services. About 3.79 lakh employees have been issued postal ballots for the Lok Sabha General Elections. They cast their votes in specially established facilitation centers before the day of polling. To ease the processing of postal ballots, Rajasthan has developed a special app named Postal Buddy.
How does the Election Commission ensure effective queue management and provide necessary facilities at polling booths to enhance the voting experience and encourage community participation during elections in Rajasthan?
For better queue management, several measures have been initiated at more than 51 thousand polling stations. Wheelchairs, ramps, shade, a waiting area, drinking water, Toilets, Parking, Uninterrupted Power Supply, and seating arrangements would be available for elderly and disabled voters. Priority voting facility will be provided to PwD, Senior Citizens Pregnant Women* etc with the help of trained volunteers. A Happy Hour Voting (between 7 AM to 10 AM) campaign will be initiated for queue management and safeguarding the voters from scorching heat conditions during the peak daytime. A Medical Kit containing ORS powder will be provided at each booth. Also, to encourage voters to come with family and communities for polling a family-selfie campaign will be started on the day of voting. Also, the Hela Toli campaign will be organized on the poll day. Some associations
What specific activities are conducted to increase the voting percentage in first-time voters and marginalized communities?
A selfie contest will be organized for first-time voters. They will be felicitated with a certificate for showing their inked fingers outside the polling stations. To encourage the interest of the young generation especially-curated 1,600 booths ‘managed by the young employees and model booths’ are being popularized, 1,600 booths will be specially managed by Women and 200 booths will be managed by PwD. Several arrangements have been made for marginalized voters to encourage them to participate in voting. Firstly, the home voting facility has been extended for the PWD with 40% or above disability and those 85+ years of age. Ramps and wheelchairs are being made available at polling booths. Also, markings have been made in Braille script on the ballot unit to help the visually impaired voters.
How does the Election Commission engage with local communities and utilize social media platforms to raise awareness about the importance of voting and the electoral process?
Election officials are engaging with various social groups and communities, industry or business associations like CII, market associations, RWAs, private schools and institutions, etc. to create awareness amongst the population about the importance of voting and to encourage people to participate in the election process. We are in regular communication with the media institutions and carry out different outdoor activities as well. On the social media front also, dedicated teams are working to popularize the election process through various social media handles.
Could you highlight any special arrangements made by the Election Commission to address challenges related to voter list discrepancies and ensure accurate voter identification during the General Elections in Rajasthan?
Voter lists have been sanitized by removing double entries of voters. For this, Demographic Similar Entries and Photo Similar Entries are being identified using different IT tools at the level of Commission. Later on, these electoral lists are purified. For inclusion of deleted or shifted voters in the lists, special campaigns are arranged at the booth level throughout the year.
What are the initiatives to improve awareness among the voters about polling dates, locations, and voting procedures, and other aspects of the elections?
Voter Information Slip (VIS) and voter guide distributed through special camps and ABC (Aao Booth Chalein) campaign on April 7 and 14 for Phase 1 polling and April 14 and 21 for Phase 2 polling*. 100 % distribution of voter slips ensured 5 days before the poll day. These VIS have a QR code printed on it which can be scanned to know the location of polling stations.
Also, youth are motivated to know the location of the booth through VHA. More than 50% of the total booths will be under CCTV surveillance (live webcasting).
Another campaign initiated to increase community participation is Satrangi Saptaah in which each day is dedicated to a particular community, namely, women, PwD, Transgender, Tribe, youth, service personnel, etc. Also, early voting certificates and selfie points, promotion through social media, ELCs, and peer groups are popular motivational initiatives for first-time voters.
