Desk News : Voice of Calcutta

Election Commission Rolls Out New Measures to Make Voting Simpler and More Transparent

In a significant step aimed at improving voter experience, the Election Commission of India has introduced a series of new measures to ensure a smoother and more transparent voting process in the upcoming elections.

According to the latest notification, several new facilities and guidelines will be implemented across polling stations to minimize inconvenience for voters and enhance overall efficiency.

One of the key initiatives includes the display of four types of informational posters outside every polling booth. These posters will provide essential details such as the list of candidates, booth-related information, voting procedures, and important do’s and don’ts. Additionally, the Commission has clearly outlined the alternative identity documents that can be used for voting in the absence of a voter ID card. The voting process will also be explained in simple language to assist first-time voters.

To further assist voters, dedicated voter assistance centers will be set up near each polling station. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will be present at these centers to help voters identify their designated booth, locate their names and serial numbers in the voter list, and provide necessary guidance. These help desks will be placed at easily visible locations for maximum accessibility.

In terms of security, strict restrictions have been imposed on the use of mobile phones. As per the Commission’s directive, mobile phones will not be allowed within a 100-meter radius of polling stations. Voters will be required to switch off their devices and deposit them at designated areas before entering the booth, and can collect them after casting their vote.

The Commission has also directed that all polling booths must be equipped with basic amenities, including drinking water, toilets, adequate lighting, shaded waiting areas, and ramps for persons with disabilities.

These measures will be implemented across a total of 218,807 polling booths in West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry. In West Bengal, polling for all 294 विधानसभा seats will be conducted in two phases on April 23 and April 29, while the counting of votes will take place on May 4.

Desk News : Voice of Calcutta