In a move to enhance transparency and ensure a fair electoral process, 75% of polling booths in Uttarakhand will feature webcasting during the upcoming by-election in the Kedarnath Assembly constituency. Additionally, 205 vehicles used in the election process will be equipped with GPS tracking, marking a significant first for elections in the state. These measures, implemented under the supervision of Chief Election Officer Dr. BVRC Purushottam, aim to make the election process fearless, fair, and transparent.
CCTV cameras have been installed at 75% of the polling stations to facilitate real-time monitoring. These cameras will enable webcasting, allowing the District Election Office, the Chief Election Officer’s Office, and the Election Commission to observe the voting process closely. Previously, CCTV monitoring was limited to 50% of polling centres, making this initiative a substantial expansion in oversight.
By Tuesday evening, CCTV installation had been completed at 130 of the 173 polling stations, with all setups cross-checked and verified. The remaining installations are expected to be finalized shortly. Webcasting will ensure that any irregularities are detected promptly, bolstering public confidence in the electoral process.
In addition to webcasting, GPS tracking devices have been installed in 205 vehicles involved in the election process. These devices will allow officials to monitor the vehicles’ movements, ensuring that they operate strictly according to protocols. This measure is intended to prevent misuse or delays and ensure efficient logistical support during the elections.
A central control room has been established at the Chief Election Office and the District Election Office to monitor the webcasting and GPS tracking operations. A designated nodal officer has been appointed to oversee the entire process, ensuring smooth implementation of these advanced monitoring measures.
The Election Commission has been actively introducing new technologies and practices to improve transparency in elections. The use of CCTV cameras, webcasting, and GPS tracking represents a concerted effort to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. These initiatives reflect the Election Commission’s commitment to conducting free and fair elections, particularly in a politically significant constituency like Kedarnath.
These measures, along with ongoing efforts to strengthen electoral mechanisms, aim to provide voters with a transparent and trustworthy environment, reinforcing the democratic process in Uttarakhand.
