Study ECI Guidelines for Smooth Election Process – Chief Electoral Officer S. Chokkalingam

Pune : In preparation for the upcoming assembly elections, Chief Electoral Officer S. Chokkalingam emphasized the importance of thoroughly studying the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) guidelines and rules to ensure a smooth election process. This was highlighted during a session at Yashada, where he addressed the attendees.

Present at the session were K. F. Dr. Wilfred from the Election Commission of India, Pune Divisional Commissioner Chandrakant Pulkundwar, Collector Dr. Suhas Diwase, and Deputy District Election Officer Meenal Kalaskar.

Chief Electoral Officer Chokkalingam stressed the need for transparent and fear-free election operations, advising staff to carefully study the rules during training and to clarify any doubts. He noted that comprehensive instructions are available in the Commission’s manuals and online, and urged everyone to seek guidance from the Commission when needed.

Special attention is being given to the efficient distribution of voting materials, following the ECI’s guidelines. Previously, materials were centralized in Mumbai before being distributed to districts, but to reduce delays and conserve resources, a new approach is being implemented where materials are directly sent to districts. He also emphasized the importance of keeping election expenses within the prescribed limits.

Dr. Pulkundwar added that ensuring a smooth election process is a shared responsibility. He advised treating each election as though it were the first, by carefully following handbooks and manuals, and adhering to time limits. He also encouraged ongoing voter awareness initiatives to help voters locate their names on the voter list and avoid last-minute rushes.

He stressed the need for continuous communication and informed decision-making, urging the inclusion of political parties in the process where necessary to ensure maximum voter convenience. He called on election officials to fulfill their constitutional duties responsibly.

Collector Dr. Diwase remarked on the technological basis of current elections, highlighting the importance of accuracy in the electoral process and the digital storage of all election-related records. He emphasized the responsibility of maintaining accurate voter lists and conducting a transparent process, particularly given the large voter base in Pune district. He noted the importance of training, especially as officers from two departments participated in the session, allowing for the exchange of experiences.

The session was introduced by Deputy District Election Officer Meenal Kalaskar, with about 150 officials from 12 districts in the Pune and Konkan Division attending the training.