ECI Issues New Guidelines for Smoother Polling

In a progressive move aligned with its continuous efforts to facilitate voter participation and ensure the smooth conduct of elections, the (ECI) has issued two comprehensive directives aimed at enhancing voter convenience on poll day. These new instructions focus on the provision of mobile phone deposit facilities just outside polling stations and rationalising the norms for canvassing. These reforms are in accordance with the Representation of the People Act, 1951 and the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961.

Mobile Deposit Facility: A Step Towards Smoother Polling Experience

With mobile phone penetration reaching unprecedented levels across both urban and rural India, the Election Commission has recognized the challenges posed by mobile devices during the voting process. Voters, especially senior citizens, women, and Persons with Disabilities (PwD), often face difficulties in managing mobile phones while adhering to polling station rules. To address this concern, the ECI has implemented a mobile deposit facility located just outside the polling stations.

According to the new instructions, voters will be required to deposit their mobile phones in simple pigeonhole boxes or jute bags placed near the entrance of polling stations. While voters may bring their phones up to the 100-meter perimeter of the station, they must ensure that the devices are switched off and not carried inside the polling premises. This measure ensures the secrecy of voting, as mandated by Rule 49M of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, which prohibits any activity that could compromise the sanctity of the ballot.

The guidelines provide some flexibility: Returning Officers (ROs) have the discretion to exempt certain polling stations from this requirement in light of adverse local circumstances. However, the overarching goal remains the protection of voter privacy and the maintenance of decorum within polling venues.

Rationalised Canvassing Norms to Uphold Electoral Integrity

In another significant move, the ECI has rationalised the permissible limits for canvassing activities on polling day. Effective immediately, no canvassing or electioneering will be allowed within a 100-meter radius of any polling station. This includes the setup of party booths or distribution points for unofficial voter identity slips.

Historically, political parties and candidates have used polling day booths to assist voters with unofficial identification slips, especially when official Voter Information Slips (VIS) were misplaced or forgotten. Under the new directive, these booths must now be positioned just beyond the 100-meter exclusion zone, thereby ensuring that the polling environment remains free from political influence and pressure.

These new norms are carefully designed to maintain a neutral, secure, and accessible atmosphere for voters while still allowing essential voter facilitation activities to take place outside the prohibited zone.

Commitment to Transparent and Voter-Friendly Elections

Guided by Chief Election Commissioner Shri Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi, the Election Commission remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving the sanctity of free and fair elections. The Commission consistently refines and updates its procedures to stay aligned with the legal framework, while embracing innovative measures to make the voting experience more accessible, efficient, and voter-friendly.

These new guidelines reflect a balanced approach—enhancing voter convenience without compromising on the core values of electoral integrity and secrecy. By addressing practical issues faced by voters and ensuring a non-partisan polling environment, the reinforces its role as a guardian of Indian democracy.

As India continues to witness growing voter participation across all demographics, such forward-thinking measures by the Election Commission are vital in strengthening the democratic fabric of the nation.