Bhubaneswar: In a move ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Odisha, an eight-member team from the Election Commission of India (ECI) commenced its review of the state’s preparedness. Led by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, the team arrived in Bhubaneswar on Thursday night for a three-day visit to evaluate the readiness for the twin elections.
The team, comprising Election Commissioner Arun Goel, Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Dharmender Sharma, Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Nitesh Kumar Vyas, and other officials, convened a review meeting in Bhubaneswar to assess the poll preparedness. Chaired by CEC Rajiv Kumar and EC Arun Goel, the meeting involved discussions with Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha Nikunja Bihari Dhal, alongside senior police and other officials.
During their visit, the ECI team engaged in consultations with various national and regional political parties to gather insights on different aspects of the impending polls. Additionally, discussions were held with District Election Officers (DEOs), Superintendents of Police (SPs), enforcement agencies, State Nodal officers, and other senior officials to review the state’s preparedness comprehensively.
Key areas under scrutiny include the status of electronic voting machines (EVMs) and booth-level preparedness for the simultaneous elections. In a bid to enhance security measures, the ECI plans to deploy cameras at approximately 60% of booths across the state, aiming to maintain law and order during the electoral process. Furthermore, surveillance through drones will be implemented in densely populated areas to bolster security measures.
The visit of the ECI team underscores the importance of ensuring smooth and efficient conduct of elections, upholding the democratic principles and electoral integrity. As the state gears up for the forthcoming polls, rigorous assessments and strategic planning are essential to facilitate a fair and transparent electoral process.
