Today(on 25th May),The ECI released absolute voter numbers for the first five polling phases, alongside expanding its data release format. This follows the Supreme Court’s refusal to consider a plea directing the ECI to publish final voter turnout data for all polling stations, which the Commission sees as a validation of its position.
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NEW DELHI: Today(on 25th May), The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken a step towards enhancing transparency in the electoral process by introducing a revamped format for releasing voter turnout data. In a move aimed at addressing concerns raised by various quarters, the Election Commission has decided to provide absolute numbers of voters for the first five phases of polling, marking a departure from its previous practices.
“The Commission is duly empowered by the Supreme Court verdict, which declined to entertain a petition requesting directives to publish final data on voter turnout from all polling stations on its website.”
-stated an Election Commission spokesperson.
This decision reflects the Commission’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process while ensuring transparency and accountability.
ALSO READ: [BREAKING] Voter Turnout Data | SC Refuses to Direct ECI for Publishing Total Votes Polled per Booth
Acknowledging the concerns raised by the Opposition regarding delays in the release of final voter turnout figures and alleged discrepancies in the voting data, the Election Commission has emphasized the robustness of its procedures. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge‘s assertion that the “credibility” of the Election Commission has reached an “all-time low” underscores the significance of addressing these issues promptly and decisively.
In response to these allegations, the Election Commission reiterated its unwavering commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections.
“The entire procedure of collecting and storing votes is rigorous, transparent, and inclusive.”
-affirmed the Commission.
“The Commission and its officials nationwide have been diligently distributing voter turnout data, ensuring compliance with all relevant statutory requirements.”
-stated the Election Commission in a recent statement.
Elaborating on the meticulous process involved in recording and releasing voter turnout data, the Commission highlighted several key steps:
- Final Elector List: Candidates receive the final elector list after its finalization, ensuring transparency in the electoral rolls.
- Form 17C: Authorized agents of political parties receive Form 17C for each polling station, providing them with detailed information on voter turnout.
- Inviolable Records: The data recorded in Form 17C is sacrosanct and cannot be tampered with, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
- Secure Transport: Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and statutory documents, including Form 17C, are transported under strict supervision to designated storage facilities, accompanied by authorized agents.
- Verification: Candidates or their representatives have the opportunity to verify the data recorded in Form 17C at counting centers, further enhancing transparency and accountability.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has emphasized the continual availability of voter turnout data through its Voter Turnout App. This development comes as part of the ECI’s ongoing efforts to ensure accessibility and transparency in the electoral process.
According to the ECI, voter turnout data has been readily accessible on the Voter Turnout App, operating round the clock from 9:30 am on the polling day of each phase.
The Commission emphasized-
“The Voter Turnout App consistently provided 24/7 access to voter turnout data starting from 9:30 am on the polling day of every phase.”
affirming its commitment to providing timely information to the public.
Furthermore, the app is designed to publish estimated turnout data every two hours on polling days, ensuring that voters and stakeholders remain informed throughout the day. It also undergoes continuous updates after polling concludes, with the most accurate estimated “Close of Poll” data available by midnight.
Addressing potential concerns regarding the timing of data release, the Election Commission acknowledged variations in reporting times among different media organizations. This variance, it stated, could lead to perceived delays in the dissemination of information.
Explaining the intricacies of finalizing voter turnout data, the Commission highlighted the influence of factors such as geographical and weather conditions.
It clarified-
“The finalization of voter data occurs post the arrival of polling teams, varying between P+1, P+2, P+3 days, or longer, contingent upon geographical factors, weather conditions, arrival timing of teams, and any instances of repolling.”
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has implemented various recent improvements to the Voter Turnout App. These updates encompass the integration of comprehensive phase-wise turnout statistics, the inclusion of a screenshot capability within the Android iteration of the application, the dissemination of elector data categorized by constituencies, and the availability of voter turnout information around 23:45 hours on the day of polling.
