Election Commission appoints 15 Special Observers electoral machinery

Election Commission appoints 15 Special Observers electoral machinery

On February 1, The Election Commission of India appointed 15 Special Observers to supervise and monitor the work done by the electoral machinery in Goa, Manipur, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. These officers will oversee the complete poll process as eyes and ears of the ECI on the ground to ensure voter-friendly, free and fair elections. Chief Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra said that Special Observers are deployed to accurately assess the poll-preparedness and guide the electoral machinery to ensure impartial, free, peaceful, and COVID safe elections. He added that ECI wants to provide a hassle-free experience to voters at each polling- station. The Special Observers will soon be visiting their allocated states and starting their work with State CEOs and concerned Deputy Election Commissioners. 

As per the official statement, 15 Observers are former civil servants and hold an impeccable track record. They are included in the team as they have past experience with election processes. CEC Chandra said that each election is unique in itself, yet higher voter turnout has to be encouraged. He said that each polling station has been provided with Assured Minimum facilities, especially for disabled persons. Postal Ballot for senior citizens above the age of 80 years is another facility provided. Polling stations have been made COVID protocol compliant and voter-friendly. (ANI reported)