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.
Today, On 24th May, The Supreme Court criticized the Election Commission over delays and inaccuracies in its Voter Turnout App, comparing the situation to the idiom “Aa Bail Mujhe Maar,” suggesting inviting trouble unnecessarily. The court emphasized the need for transparency and caution in adopting high-stakes technological solutions in electoral processes.
Today(on 24th May), The Supreme Court declined to issue an interim order on a petition from the NGO Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), which sought prompt disclosure of authenticated final voter turnout data for all polling stations in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections 2024, within 48 hours of polls closing.
Today (May 23rd): Kapil Sibal criticized the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) refusal to publish Form 17C data on its website, emphasizing the importance of transparency in elections. In response, the ECI expressed concerns about potential confusion and mischief if such data were made public, particularly regarding the inclusion of postal ballots.
The ECI submitted an affidavit on 22nd May, to the Supreme Court, arguing against the disclosure of Form 17C data, stating it could confuse voters. The ECI criticized ADR for making false allegations and seeking unfounded entitlements. A potential legal battle looms as the Supreme Court asks ECI to respond to ADR’s application, raising transparency concerns.
Today (10th May): The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has petitioned the Indian Supreme Court for transparent disclosure of voter turnout data in the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections 2024. A substantial increase in the final voter turnout figures and delays in their announcement prompted the plea, emphasizing the importance of transparent electoral processes to ensure fair elections.