Polling station-wise turnout disclosure may cause chaos: EC tells SC
The Election Commission (EC) further refuted allegations, dismissing them as false and misleading. In a statement issued to the Supreme Court, the EC emphasized the unsubstantiated nature of the claims. Such assertions, deemed erroneous and misrepresentative, could potentially undermine public trust in the electoral process. The EC’s firm stance underscores its commitment to upholding the integrity and credibility of the democratic exercise.
Moreover, the EC emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency while safeguarding against the dissemination of misinformation. By swiftly addressing false allegations, the EC aims to prevent any undue influence on public perception and confidence in the electoral system.
The EC’s response highlights its proactive approach in addressing challenges and ensuring the smooth conduct of elections. As the custodian of electoral integrity, the EC remains vigilant in countering misinformation and upholding the sanctity of the democratic process.
Overall, the EC’s dismissal of false allegations reaffirms its dedication to fostering trust and accountability in the electoral framework. Through transparent communication and decisive action, the EC aims to uphold the fundamental principles of democracy and protect the rights of voters.
The Election Commission (EC) of India, in a submission to the Supreme Court on Wednesday, voiced concerns over the potential chaos that could arise from publicly disclosing polling station-wise voter turnout data on its website during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The EC emphasized that such disclosure could disrupt the election machinery, which is already in motion.
Furthermore, the EC addressed and refuted allegations suggesting an increase of “5-6 per cent” in the voter turnout data for the first two phases of the Lok Sabha elections. The commission dismissed these claims as false and misleading. It clarified that the voter turnout data released on the day of polling and in subsequent press releases for each phase remained consistent and accurate.
The EC highlighted the absence of provisions for the indiscriminate disclosure and public posting of Form 17C, which provides the number of votes polled in a polling station, in the statutory framework. It cautioned against the potential misuse of such data, citing concerns about mischief and the possibility of the images being manipulated.
The commission’s stance underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity and credibility of the electoral process. By refraining from public disclosure of polling station-wise data and addressing false allegations promptly, the EC aims to preserve the sanctity of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.
The EC’s decision to withhold certain information aligns with its responsibility to safeguard against any disruptions or irregularities that could undermine the electoral process. It reflects the commission’s proactive approach to upholding transparency while mitigating risks associated with the dissemination of sensitive data.
Additionally, the EC’s response underscores the importance of adhering to established legal frameworks and procedures governing elections. By adhering to statutory provisions and exercising caution in the handling of electoral data, the commission seeks to prevent any potential breaches or manipulation of information.
Overall, the EC’s submission to the Supreme Court reaffirms its commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections in India. Through its actions and decisions, the commission endeavors to uphold the democratic principles and ensure the integrity of the electoral process, thereby preserving public trust and confidence in the democratic institutions of the country.
In response to a plea filed by an NGO, the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR), seeking the uploading of polling station-wise voter turnout data on its website within 48 hours of the conclusion of polling for each phase of the Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission (EC) of India filed an affidavit stating its position. The EC expressed concerns over the potential ramifications of granting such relief, emphasizing that it would contradict established legal norms and disrupt the ongoing election machinery for the 2024 General Elections to the Lok Sabha.
The affidavit, spanning 225 pages, presented the EC’s argument against the petitioner’s request. It highlighted the absence of legal provisions mandating the disclosure of polling station-wise voter turnout data within the specified timeframe. The EC contended that complying with the petitioner’s demands would not only contravene existing legal frameworks but also create chaos within the election machinery, which is already operational for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.
Furthermore, the EC pointed out the petitioner’s failure to cite any instances where candidates or voters had filed election petitions based on the allegations raised regarding the Lok Sabha elections in 2019. This absence of concrete evidence undermined the petitioner’s claims and raised questions about the necessity and validity of the requested relief.
The affidavit underscores the EC’s commitment to upholding the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process. By resisting measures that could potentially disrupt the election machinery and compromise the sanctity of the democratic exercise, the EC aims to ensure fair and transparent elections in accordance with established legal principles.
Additionally, the EC’s response highlights the importance of evidence-based decision-making in matters pertaining to electoral procedures and regulations. Without concrete instances or precedent supporting the petitioner’s claims, the EC maintains that there is no justification for altering existing protocols related to the disclosure of voter turnout data.
Overall, the EC’s affidavit represents a robust defense of its position regarding the uploading of polling station-wise voter turnout data. Through its comprehensive argumentation, the EC seeks to uphold the rule of law and protect the integrity of the electoral process from potential disruptions or deviations from established legal norms. As India continues its democratic journey, the EC remains steadfast in its commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections that reflect the will of the people.
The Election Commission refutes allegations, citing the absence of evidence and potential misuse of disclosed data, in response to an NGO’s plea for polling station-wise voter turnout disclosure.