ECI Vows Stringent Action Against Cash for Votes in Tamil Nadu Assembly Polls
In a firm stance against electoral malpractices, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar declared on Friday that the distribution of money to voters is a "menace" in Tamil Nadu. He emphasized that the forthcoming assembly polls in the state will be "a different one," with the entire election machinery implementing stringent measures to curb the distribution of cash and other inducements to voters.
Commitment to Curbing Electoral Malpractices
Speaking to reporters in Chennai, Gyanesh Kumar stated, "The election machinery is geared up to ensure that this menace in TN is not there this time. All the political parties have also given us their commitment to curb the menace. The upcoming assembly election in TN is going to be a different one." He highlighted the collaborative effort between the Election Commission of India (ECI) and political parties to ensure a fair electoral process.
Praise for Law and Order and Polling Efficiency
Kumar lauded the law and order situation in Tamil Nadu, describing it as "perfect." He expressed confidence that the state would witness the highest polling percentage in the country during the assembly election, potentially surpassing the "flawless election in Bihar." Efforts have been made to enhance the robustness of the election process, including the immediate uploading of voting data by officials at polling stations to avoid delays in reporting voting percentages.
Decision on Single-Phase Poll and Voter Demographics
Regarding requests from political parties for a single-phase poll, Kumar remained non-committal. He noted that the ECI has taken their views into account but will make a decision after considering multiple factors. This decision will be announced along with the election schedule. Kumar also described Tamil Nadu's gender ratio as "phenomenal," with women voters outnumbering men. However, he cautioned against comparing the elector-to-population ratio with the 2011 Census data.
Appreciation for Electoral Roll Revision and Voter Statistics
The Chief Election Commissioner appreciated government employees, booth-level officers, and stakeholders involved in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in Tamil Nadu. The final roll, published with 5.67 crore electors, saw only 216 appeals filed before collectors. Key voter statistics include:
- Centenarian Voters: 2,530 electors aged 100 and above.
- Young Voters: 1.05 crore in the 20-29 age group out of the total electorate.
- Gender Breakdown: Women account for 2,89,60,838 electors, men for 2,77,38,925, and third gender for 7,617.
- First-Time and Service Electors: 12.51 lakh first-time voters (18-19 years) and 67,053 service electors.
- Polling Stations: 75,032 stations (44,065 rural and 30,967 urban), with an average of 756 voters per station.
Facilities for Elderly and Persons with Disabilities
With 3.99 lakh electors above 85 years and 4.63 lakh Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), the ECI has assured necessary measures to facilitate their voting. This includes providing volunteers with wheelchairs to ensure they can cast their franchise without any hassle, underscoring the commission's commitment to inclusive and accessible elections.
