1. Chief Election Commissioner Anandan underscores the importance of responsible spending in election campaigns.
2. Emphasis placed on implementing stringent cost-cutting measures to curb excessive election expenses.
3. Anandan highlights the need for fairness and transparency in the upcoming Sikkim state Assembly elections.
Gangtok, March 18: In a press conference held in Gangtok, D. Anandan, the Chief Election Commissioner of Sikkim, outlined a comprehensive strategy for the upcoming Sikkim state Assembly elections 2024, emphasizing fairness and transparency in the electoral process.
Addressing the issue of responsible spending, Anandan stressed the need for stringent cost-cutting measures to curb excessive expenditure in election campaigns. He proposed the imposition of minimum fixed rates to ensure uniformity and a level playing field for all candidates.
Anandan highlighted the paramount importance of security for electronic voting machines (EVMs) and other electoral materials housed within strong rooms. He detailed a three-tier security system involving Central Armed Police Force personnel and state police authorities to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
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Eligibility criteria for postal ballots were clarified, catering to individuals on election duty, service voters, and those above 85 years of age or with disabilities.
An optional home voting facility was introduced to enable eligible voters unable to visit polling stations to cast their ballots remotely.
To enhance transparency and oversight, Anandan announced the deployment of general, police, and expenditure observers. Technological applications such as Suvidha and Citizen Digital will streamline candidate permissions and grievance redressal mechanisms.
Facilitation centers will be established to assist in the seamless casting of postal ballots, particularly for voters on election duty.
Voter awareness initiatives will include verifying details in the electoral roll and distributing voter information slips for easy access to polling station details.
Addressing concerns about law and order, Anandan assured citizens of robust security arrangements across critical and vulnerable polling stations.
Municipal magistrates, police officers, and surveillance teams will ensure the smooth conduct of the assembly elections.
Anandan reiterated the Election Commission’s commitment to upholding democratic values and electoral integrity in the Sikkim Assembly elections 2024.
Encouraging citizen participation, he emphasized the pivotal role of every voter in shaping the state’s future.
