Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar Reviews Jharkhand Poll Preparations
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. S.S. Sandhu, conducted a thorough review of the poll preparedness for the upcoming Assembly Elections in Jharkhand. The review took place in Ranchi, where they directed central and state enforcement agencies to curb the influence of money power.
The term of the Jharkhand State Assembly is set to expire on January 5, 2025, with elections scheduled for 81 constituencies. During the Commission’s two-day review visit, representatives from various national and state political parties met with the Commission. All political parties appreciated the successful and peaceful conduct of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.
In a press release, the Election Commission noted that most parties requested consideration of various festivals before finalizing the election schedule to enhance voter participation. They also requested a single-phase election, error-free electoral rolls, and non-partisan action from the local civil and police administration.
Regarding polling stations, one party requested ramps, adequate lighting, and priority voting for the elderly, PwDs, and pregnant women. They also suggested setting up polling stations close to residential areas and providing a pick-up and drop-off facility for distant stations.
The Commission stressed the need for strict vigilance against the use of illicit cash, liquor, and freebies to sway voters. They assured representatives of their commitment to conducting free, fair, participative, inclusive, peaceful, and inducement-free elections.
During meetings with nearly 20 central and state enforcement agencies, the Commission underscored its focus on ensuring an inducement-free election. CEC Rajiv Kumar cautioned officials to avoid undue harassment of the public in the name of election checks.
The Commission also met with the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police to review overall poll preparedness and law and order. They emphasized the need for impartial implementation of laws and ECI guidelines.
On the second day, the Commission held detailed reviews with DEOs, SPs, Divisional Commissioners, and IGs regarding every aspect of election planning and execution. CEC Rajiv Kumar urged district administrations to create a festive and comfortable voting experience for voters and to engage them through innovative voter awareness and outreach activities.
In the 2020 Assembly elections, JMM won 30 seats, BJP secured 25, and Congress took 16.
Doubts Revealed
Chief Election Commissioner -: The Chief Election Commissioner is the head of the Election Commission of India, which is responsible for conducting elections in the country.
Rajiv Kumar -: Rajiv Kumar is the current Chief Election Commissioner of India, overseeing the election process to ensure it is fair and free.
Jharkhand -: Jharkhand is a state in eastern India known for its rich mineral resources and diverse culture.
Assembly Elections -: Assembly Elections are held to elect representatives to the state legislative assembly, which makes laws for the state.
Election Commissioners -: Election Commissioners are officials who assist the Chief Election Commissioner in managing and conducting elections.
Gyanesh Kumar -: Gyanesh Kumar is one of the Election Commissioners working with the Chief Election Commissioner.
Dr. S.S. Sandhu -: Dr. S.S. Sandhu is another Election Commissioner helping to oversee the election process.
Political parties -: Political parties are groups of people with similar ideas about how the government should be run, and they compete in elections to gain power.
Enforcement agencies -: Enforcement agencies are organizations like the police that ensure laws are followed during elections.
Money power -: Money power refers to the use of money to unfairly influence voters or election outcomes.
Voter convenience -: Voter convenience means making it easy for people to vote, like having enough polling stations and making sure they are accessible.
Impartial administration -: Impartial administration means that the officials conducting the elections do not favor any political party and treat all candidates fairly.
Strict vigilance -: Strict vigilance means keeping a close watch to prevent any unfair practices during the elections.
Innovative voter engagement -: Innovative voter engagement involves using new and creative ways to encourage people to vote, like social media campaigns or special events.
Turnout -: Turnout refers to the number of people who actually go and vote in the elections.
