Assembly Elections in April! Major Announcement by Election Commission of India – Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar Speaks in Press Meet
Preparations for the Assembly elections have officially begun. Amid ongoing discussions regarding the Odisha Assembly elections, the Chief Election Commissioner held a press conference on Saturday. The Election Commission of India team addressed the media in Odisha. Here’s what Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar said during the press meet:
Equal Conduct for All Parties:
Instructions have been issued to all District Collectors and SPs to maintain neutrality. The Commission has stressed impartiality and equal treatment of all political parties.
Priority for First Applicants:
Political parties will be granted campaign space based on early applications. The party or candidate who applies first will be given priority. All candidates must submit complete details in the KYC. Candidates must disclose their criminal records three times in the media.
Citizens Can Report Illegal Activities:
Through the Commission’s app, citizens can report any illegal activities. They can even provide location details using latitude and longitude. Police and officials will respond within 100 minutes.
Over 3.32 Crore Voters in Odisha:
The Election Commission stated that a total of 3.32 crore voters will cast their votes in Odisha. Around 4,000 polling booths will be managed exclusively by female officers.
Webcasting Facilities in Most Booths:
Webcasting will be arranged at more than half the polling booths. Odisha will have a total of 37,809 polling stations. Compared to 2019, the number of voters has increased by 4.4%.
Tenure of Assemblies Ending Soon:
The tenure of the Odisha Legislative Assembly ends on June 24, and the Lok Sabha’s tenure ends on June 16. The final election schedule will be announced after reviewing preparations in all states.
Election Dates to Be Announced by March:
The dates for the elections will be announced by March. Voting is expected to take place in April and May. The Commission emphasizes the importance of public awareness and participation.
Simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly Elections:
The Lok Sabha and Assembly elections will be held simultaneously. The Chief Election Commissioner urged all voters, especially the youth, women, and those in remote areas, to exercise their right to vote. Preparations for the 2024 elections are in the final phase.
