1. Meghalaya residents have begun receiving their EPICs for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.
2. Concerns arise as some individuals report receiving multiple cards.
3. Instances include receiving two or more cards with variations in electoral numbers.
Shillong, Feb 11: Ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, residents in Meghalaya have commenced receiving their electoral photo identity cards (EPIC), but reports indicate a concerning trend of some individuals receiving multiple cards.
While some have been issued two cards, others have received three or more, with variations in electoral numbers among them.
The distribution of electoral cards began across the state on National Voters Day, observed on January 25, 2024, through booth-level officers (BLO) under the oversight of electoral registration officers (ERO) stationed at the deputy commissioner’s offices.
Instances of duplicity in the cards have been flagged, prompting inquiries by officials. Despite the anomalies, BLOs have been instructed to continue with the distribution process, leading to confusion among voters and officers alike.
In some cases, voters have been perplexed by receiving EPICs with different electoral numbers but identical personal details. This discrepancy has raised questions about the integrity of the electoral registration process.
Concerned individuals, including political representatives like Shillong MP Vincent H Pala and All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) Meghalaya unit president Charles Pyngrope, have called for immediate investigations into the matter.
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Pala emphasized the need for clarity and accountability, particularly in the lead-up to the elections.
Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya, B.D.R. Tiwari, acknowledged the issue but assured that it is being addressed. He attributed the discrepancies to potential errors in the printing process and emphasized the responsibility of EROs to prevent such incidents.
Tiwari assured that a thorough investigation is underway to identify lapses and implement corrective measures promptly.
While acknowledging the seriousness of the situation, he affirmed the commitment of electoral authorities to resolve the matter and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
