Tell us by April 30… Letter written to political parties, Election Commission’s big decision amid questions from the opposition
All the opposition parties have raised questions first about EVMs and then about the voter list. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi a day earlier demanded a detailed discussion in Parliament on the doubts arising on the credibility of the election process due to alleged irregularities in the voter lists and raised this issue in the Lok Sabha. On the other hand, the Election Commission (ECI) has sought suggestions from all national and state level political parties by April 30 on those issues which have not been resolved yet. These issues can be at the ERO, DEO or CEO level. The Election Commission will also talk to party presidents and senior members. The purpose of this conversation is to strengthen the electoral processes. All this will be done within the legal framework.
ECI has sent separate letters to all political parties. Suggestions have been sought by April 30. Suggestions can be on pending issues at the ERO, DEO or CEO level. ERO means Electoral Registration Officer. DEO means District Election Officer. CEO means Chief Election Officer. The Commission will also talk to party presidents and senior leaders. In an ECI conference last week, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar had given instructions in this matter.
He asked the CEOs, DEOs and EROs of all States/UTs to have regular interactions with political parties. He said that the suggestions received in these meetings should be resolved. This solution should be within the legal framework. He also asked to submit a report to the Commission by March 31, 2025. This report should contain details of the action taken. The Commission also urged political parties to make full use of this system.
The Commission has said some things in a letter to political parties. It mentioned the Representation of the People Act 1950 and 1951. It also mentioned the Voter Registration Rules, 1960. Also, the Election Code of Conduct, 1961. The orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court were also mentioned. All these are available on the ECI website.
