India's Elections: "Among World's Most Transparent" Says CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar has declared that India's electoral process stands as one of the most transparent globally, with verification steps integrated at every stage, from voter registration to the final vote count. He made these remarks during an 'Interaction with Booth Level Officers' program at Gujarat University.

Kumar emphasized that transparency is ensured through continuous verification by political parties, candidates, and their agents throughout the entire process. He highlighted the crucial role of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in maintaining accurate electoral rolls, identifying cases of Absent, Shifted, Dead, Duplicate, and Foreigner (ASDDF) voters, while also ensuring all eligible citizens are included.

He stressed the importance of enrolling every Indian citizen who turns 18.

The CEC elaborated on the integrity of the polling process.

Before any votes are cast, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units undergo thorough checks during a mock poll, all conducted in the presence of candidates' polling agents. Similarly, post-polling procedures and the final vote counting are completed with agents present, ensuring full accountability.

During counting, EVM recorded votes are cross-verified with Form 17C data, again under the watchful eyes of counting agents.

To maintain the purity and accuracy of electoral rolls, the Election Commission regularly conducts Special Intensive Revision processes. BLOs personally visit voters' homes to verify details and ensure the rolls are up-to-date. Kumar urged BLOs to remain vigilant and actively update rolls, especially to include young adults who have just reached voting age, calling it a vital service to India's democracy.

In Ahmedabad, Kumar also participated in a regional conference focused on "Electoral Literacy Clubs and ECINET," aiming to boost democratic awareness among young citizens.

He encouraged youth to download the 'ECINET' app and assist their families and communities in voter registration.

Electoral Literacy Clubs in schools and colleges are seen as key tools to strengthen democratic values.

India's leadership of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), an organization of 35 major democracies, further underscores the global recognition of the country's fair and free electoral system. Kumar concluded by reiterating that every citizen aged 18 or above has a right to be on the electoral roll and a duty to vote.

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