Highlights | EC Press Conference On Lok Sabha Election 2024 Dates - In Points

In anticipation of the Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission of India has announced the date, BJP has released its second list of candidates who will contest in the polls.

Over 250 candidates for the general elections have been finalized by BJP with the release of the second list. Additionally, two lists containing 82 candidates have been released by Congress, although more names are anticipated to be announced by the party. Below is the latest update on the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 date, time, candidates, and other relevant details.

During the press conference, Rajiv Kumar addressed various aspects of the democracy festival that is Lok Sabha Election 2024. From pink booths to other facilities for women, tackling misinformation/ fake news to security deployment and staff were discussed by Rajiv Kumar. The CEC refers to GE 2024 as a historic opportunity for Indians to collectively express their will once more. He pledges to conduct a national election that will serve as a beacon for electoral democracies worldwide.

Every election is emphasized by CEC Kumar as a sacred responsibility entrusted by the Constitution, which is taken up by the ECI with humility and diligence, leaving no room for complacency. The commitment to fair and transparent elections remains steadfast.

Election Commission Press Conference - Highlights

- India is prepared for the celebration of democracy with 97 Cr voters, 1.5 Cr polling officials, and 10.5 lakh polling stations. A mammoth exercise in democracy is being conducted, which constitutes the world's largest electoral movement of man and material. Over 55 lakh EVMs will be deployed for the General Elections.

- Ahead of elections for the 18th Lok Sabha, a festive and peaceful voting environment is emphasized by the Commission. Positive outcomes in past elections, including reduced repolls, campaign clutter, and swift action against misinformation, have been yielded by the Commission's efforts.

- No challenge is deemed too big by the Election Commission of India (ECI)! Committed to transparent, fair, and inclusive General Elections, the ECI aims for a festive voting atmosphere, free from intimidation and violence, with tailored strategies to boost youth voter turnout. Let's ensure that every voice is heard in Election 2024.

- Inclusivity celebrated! The growth in voter categories, especially among women, youth, and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), is reflected in the Election Commission of India's commitment to inclusive rolls. With approximately 82 lakhs PwDs, 2.2 lakh voters aged 100+, and 48,000 Third gender voters, a diverse mosaic of the electorate is portrayed in our rolls.

- The pure Electoral Roll serves as the first pillar of electoral integrity, providing a solid foundation for all efforts aimed at enhancing voter turnout. The Electoral Roll updation process is rigorous, transparent, and participatory. Let's work together to make our democracy stronger and ensure that no one is left behind!

Strict SOPs are followed by #ECI in electoral roll preparation, ensuring that no voter is left behind. Transparency commitment includes regular consultations with political parties and full disclosure on our website. Grievance redressal is prioritized at every stage.

- The growing gender ratio in electoral rolls is a testament to women celebrating their right to vote. Efforts have been made to bring women into the process, with an elector gender ratio over 1000 observed in 12 States/UTs. Over 85 lakh 1st-time women voters will participate in this year's election.

- Our young voters! Future of democracy! With 4 enrollment dates, ~1.8 crore first-time voters and 19.74 crore young voters in the 20-29 age group have been registered. Collaborations with icons like Sachin Tendulkar and Rajkummar Rao, along with social media campaigns and radio engagement, are aimed at enhancing youth participation.

- In the General Elections 2024, a seamless voting experience is provided to voters nationwide with 10.5 lakh polling booths, equipped with assured minimum facilities. From ramps for PwDs to assistance for pregnant women, inclusive participation is aimed. Every voice is considered important.

- From snowy peaks in the North to coastal shores in the South, polling stations are set up nationwide, each with unique challenges. From Rajasthan's deserts to Arunachal's jungles, voters are reached by the ECI wherever they are, strengthening democracy.

- Ensuring a pleasant and welcoming experience is deemed a top priority by us, as it is believed to be crucial for deepening participation in democracy. Mandates have been established that require a minimum number of polling booths nationwide to be operated entirely by PwDs and women, including women security staff.

- Breaking the barriers - Every vote counts! To ensure inclusivity and participation in the electoral process, the home voting facility is made available to voters aged 85 and above, as well as to PwD voters with a 40% benchmark disability. Volunteers, wheelchairs, and transport facilities are also provided at polling stations.

- India's electoral democracy functions effectively due to the able shoulders of 1.5 crore polling officials and security staff. It is on their capable shoulders that the festival of democracy succeeds. They go the extra mile so that voters do not have to. Their commitment and dedication are saluted by the ECI!

-Sustainable elections are being prioritized by the ECI, with efforts being made to minimize single-use plastic and promote eco-friendly practices in the election process.

- 27 apps & portals are offered by #ECI for all stakeholders. cVigil empowers citizens to report MCC violations & assures action within 100 mts. The KYC app facilitates informed voting. A revamped results portal is provided to enhance the experience on results day.

- In today's digital age, tackling misinformation is complex. Certain measures have been put in place to ensure misinformation is nipped in the bud. Proactivity in debunking fake news is emphasized. Originators of fake news are to be dealt with severely as per extant laws, as stated by CEC Kumar. "Verify Before You Amplify" is the mantra to combat fake news. Relying on authoritative sources to ensure accurate information prevails is encouraged. Vigilance is urged to help maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

In its efforts to engage political parties constructively, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has streamlined processes through the IEMS portal and initiated action against defaulting RUPPs. All stakeholders are urged to maintain respectful discourse, particularly concerning Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), and refrain from using children in political campaigning.

For the upcoming elections, over 2100 General, Police, and Expenditure Observers are being deployed. They serve as the eyes and ears of the Commission, overseeing the conduct of inducement and intimidation-free elections, ensuring a level playing field for all.

The objectives of the elections include enhanced citizen participation and zero violence. The Commission aims for reduced repolls, elimination of inducements, clear campaigns, and curbing of fake narratives. Ensuring a successful electoral process remains the top priority.

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