Arunachal Pradesh Introduces On-the-Spot Voting for Election Duty Personnel

The State Election Commission in Arunachal Pradesh has introduced an on-the-spot voting facility for personnel on poll duty for the municipal elections. Personnel can apply to their municipal returning officer for this facility, ensuring they can vote without postal ballots. This initiative strengthens democratic participation.

The State Election Commission (SEC) in Arunachal Pradesh has implemented a groundbreaking move by introducing on-the-spot voting for personnel on election duty, replacing the traditional postal ballot system. This new facility, aimed at enhancing democratic participation, will be operational during the forthcoming municipal elections in Itanagar and Pasighat.

According to SEC Secretary Taru Talo, polling personnel from these regions must apply to their municipal returning officer for the on-the-spot voting facility, at least three days ahead of the elections. The application must include a copy of the election duty appointment order. After verifying credentials, the MRO will provide a ballot paper to eligible voters.

The innovation comes ahead of the simultaneous panchayat and municipal elections scheduled for December 15, involving over 8 lakh voters across the state. Voting stations will be strategically set up, and security measures like sealing counterfoils will ensure the process's integrity. The SEC has also laid out that candidates and their representatives should be present during voting to fortify transparency.

(With inputs from agencies.)