Kochi, March 6 (IANS). Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar reached Kochi to take stock of the preparations for the upcoming assembly elections in Kerala. During this, he met representatives of various political parties along with other senior officials of the Election Commission and discussed the preparations and arrangements related to the elections.
In the meeting, most of the political parties appreciated the Election Commission for conducting the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list in Kerala in a peaceful and smooth manner. Many parties also praised the work done by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in the process. Political parties said that the process of revision of voter list has been systematic and transparent, which has provided convenience to voters.
Many important issues were discussed in the meeting to ensure a transparent, fair and smooth conduct of the election process.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said that the entire process of SIR has been done in a very transparent manner. He said that for any kind of mistake or amendment, application can be made through Form-6. Apart from this, Forms 6, 7 and 8 can be filed now to add, delete or modify the name of any voter.
He also clarified that an appeal against any decision can be filed with the District Magistrate or the Chief Electoral Officer under the provisions of the Representation of the People Act 1950.
During the meeting, several political parties demanded strict action from the Election Commission to stop the use of money power and distribution of liquor or other freebies during elections. Apart from this, some parties also requested to keep in mind local festivals and cultural events while deciding the election dates.
Gyanesh Kumar assured all political parties that elections are always conducted as per the law, without any discrimination and in a completely free, fair and transparent manner. He appealed to the parties to use the C-VIGIL app of the ECInet platform to lodge any complaint related to violation of the election code of conduct.
He also said that ramps, wheelchairs, drinking water and other necessary facilities will be ensured at all polling stations for the convenience of voters. The Chief Election Commissioner expressed hope that the upcoming elections in Kerala will, as always, prove to be an ideal example for the entire country and the world.
The meeting was attended by representatives of several national parties including Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, Bharatiya Janata Party, Marxist Communist Party and Congress, as well as representatives of state level parties like Communist Party of India, Indian Union Muslim League, Kerala Congress, Kerala Congress (M) and Revolutionary Socialist Party.
–IANS
SAK/VC