ECI Issues New Guidelines to Enhance Voter Experience on Poll Day

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced two key measures aimed at improving voter convenience and ensuring compliance with poll day protocols. The latest directives include the introduction of a mobile phone deposit facility outside polling stations and revised rules for canvassing near voting areas, in accordance with the Representation of the People Act, 1951 and Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961.

Image Source: ECI Website/representational Only

Acknowledging the growing use of mobile phones across urban and rural areas—and the difficulty some voters face in managing them on election day—the Commission has directed that voters will be required to deposit their mobile phones outside the polling station. Designated pigeonhole boxes or jute bags will be placed near the entrance for this purpose. Phones must be switched off and are not permitted inside polling booths. However, exemptions can be made by the Returning Officer in areas facing specific local challenges.

The ECI clarified that Rule 49M, which guarantees the secrecy of voting, will continue to be strictly implemented.

In a parallel move, the Commission has also rationalised norms for canvassing. On poll day, no electioneering will be allowed within 100 meters of any polling station. Candidate booths offering unofficial voter slips may now be set up just beyond this 100-meter limit. This aligns with legal provisions and aims to avoid any undue influence on voters in the immediate vicinity of polling areas.

The directives were issued under the leadership of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi, reinforcing the Commission’s commitment to voter facilitation within a robust legal framework.