Punjab poll panel is embarking on a technological revolution for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024, with an array of cutting-edge IT initiatives set to transform the electoral landscape. Picture this: 100 per cent webcasting will illuminate all 24,433 polling stations across the state, while a suite of mobile voter-friendly apps and websites will put election oversight at the fingertips of every citizen. These innovations not only empower voters to report violations via phone but also ensure meticulous monitoring of Electronic Voting Machines’ (EVMs) transportation and the installation of vigilant CCTV cameras at polling stations.

Aiming to make the electoral process more transparent and accessible, the state’s Chief Electoral Office (CEO) Sibin C has introduced a comprehensive range of IT solutions. “We are closely monitoring the election process through 100 per cent webcasting of poll stations. For the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, CCTV surveillance will be ensured inside all 24,433 polling booths, apart from it cameras will be installed outside 1,884 polling stations in all 13 constituencies where there are three or more polling stations,” he said.

CEO said that the implementation of 100 per cent webcasting at all polling stations will enable real-time monitoring of polling activities, ensuring accountability and transparency throughout the electoral process. Additionally, the installation of CCTV cameras at polling stations further enhances surveillance, deterring malpractices, and safeguarding the integrity of the voting process.

Sibin C said that they have introduced a revamped NextGen District Information System for Elections (DISE) this time which will be used to manage all aspects of elections — from collecting data of polling staff to scheduling rehearsals, randomizing polling staff and counting staff.

“This web-based application is utilized to integrate available employee data from other applications using APIs, CSV or Excel files. It will also assist in managing staff shortages after the initial stage by deploying additional staff,” he added.

In another initiative, the CEO said that live streaming from flying squad vehicles (FSV), and static surveillance teams are monitoring violations of the model code of conduct during the election process. The poll activity management system (PAMS) used for deploying polling parties and updating voting information, such as the commencement of polling and the status of voter queues at closing hours, has also been revamped to enhance the efficiency of election-related activities. The mobile app will provide real-time data.

In addition, the poll panel has launched several mobile voter-friendly apps and websites. These platforms empower voters to actively participate in the electoral process by reporting election violations via phone. Citizens can use these apps to submit complaints and provide evidence of any malpractices, enabling swift action by election authorities to address such issues.

“The ECI’s ‘Voter Helpline APP’ provides citizens with convenience in finding their names in the electoral roll, submitting online forms, downloading their digital photo voter slip, filing complaints, and receiving replies on their mobile app,” he said.

Another crucial initiative is the mobile application ‘Know Your Candidate’, allowing electors to access details and criminal background of any candidate. This app aims to provide wider publicity and greater awareness regarding the criminal background of contesting candidates to ensure transparent elections.

“In another novel initiatives by the ECI, the voter-friendly mobile app cVIGIL enables people to report the Model Code of Conduct violations, featuring live photo or video with live location. Any citizen can lodge a complaint through this mobile app, after which Flying Squads investigate the matter, and the Returning Officer takes a decision within 100 minutes, utilizing GPS to track the violation's location,” he said.

Likewise, the CEO said that Saksham-ECI, an application enabling Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to request new registration, address changes, alter particulars, and mark themselves as PwD. The app offers voice assistance, text-to-speech, accessibility features, among others, catering to the needs of PwDs during the electoral process.

BOX

IT Initiatives

·        100 per cent webcasting of all 24,433 polling stations

·        Cameras to be installed outside 1,884 polling stations in all 13 constituencies

·        NextGen District Information System for Elections (DISE)

·        Live streaming from flying squad vehicles (FSV), and static surveillance teams

·        Poll activity management system (PAMS)

·        Voter Helpline App

·        Know Your Candidate’

·        cVIGIL

·        Saksham