Guwahati, March 26: With election momentum building across Assam, authorities have accelerated preparations to ensure a seamless voting process for the Assembly elections scheduled on April 9. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has stepped up its efforts through a comprehensive state-wide virtual review and training session involving top administrative and law enforcement officials.
The high-level session brought together District Election Officers (DEOs), Superintendents of Police (SPs), senior police personnel, and key administrative heads to assess readiness across districts. The review focused on strengthening coordination, evaluating logistical arrangements, and ensuring robust security deployment.
The initiative follows the recent visit of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, who underscored the importance of conducting elections in a “peaceful, fair, and intimidation-free environment,” enabling voters to participate confidently in a celebratory democratic atmosphere.
District-Level Readiness Under Review
Officials carried out a detailed assessment of preparations at the district level. Key areas of focus included:
- Availability of basic amenities at polling stations
- Proper handling and deployment of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)
- Adequate manpower allocation for polling duties
- Monitoring of seizure operations to curb electoral malpractices
- Strengthening voter awareness campaigns
Security preparedness remained a central priority, with authorities reviewing deployment strategies to prevent disruptions and ensure law and order during polling.
Transparency Measures Strengthened
To enhance transparency, the ECI has issued strict operational directives. Presiding Officers have been instructed to:
- Provide polling agents with signed copies of Form 17C, detailing votes recorded
- Update voter turnout data on the ECINET app at two-hour intervals and after polling concludes
These measures aim to reinforce accountability and public confidence in the electoral process.
Focus on Voter Participation and Inclusivity
The Commission has emphasized proactive voter outreach. Voter Information Slips will be distributed to all registered electors at least five days before polling. Additionally, voter guides will be delivered to households to improve awareness.
In a move towards inclusive elections, Braille-enabled slips are being arranged for visually impaired voters, ensuring equal participation opportunities.
Streamlined Campaign Permissions and Remote Area Planning
Officials have been directed to process campaign-related permissions through the Suvidha portal within 24 hours, adhering to a “first come, first served” system while maintaining neutrality.
Special focus has also been placed on polling stations in riverine and remote regions. Authorities have been instructed to ensure strong emergency response mechanisms and rescue preparedness to tackle logistical challenges.
Closing Note
As Assam moves closer to polling day, the Election Commission’s intensified efforts signal a firm commitment to delivering free, fair, and well-managed elections. The coordinated approach across administrative and security frameworks is expected to facilitate a smooth electoral exercise across the state.
