ECI Reviews Election Arrangements Coordination in Karnataka and Neighboring States in Run Up to GE to the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka
INVC NEWS
New Delhi ,
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a fair and inducement-free election process in the ongoing General Election 2023 to the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka. In this regard, the ECI, led by Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar, recently held a video conference with Chief Secretaries, Director Generals of Police, Nodal Police Officers, Nodal Officer CAPF, and senior officials from enforcement agencies including Coast Guard, NCB, Income tax, etc of Karnataka and neighboring states of Goa, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
The review meeting, held on April 28, 2023, aimed to discuss and enhance election arrangements, law and order coordination, and vigilance on the state borders to prevent any cross border movement of illicit cash, liquor, drugs, and freebies. The CEC, Rajiv Kumar, directed state teams to keep a strict vigil on the 185 interstate checkposts across the six neighboring states to ensure no illegal activities take place. He emphasized the need for responsible officers to control money power and instill fear of administration amongst violators.
As per the records, the ECI has already seized over Rs 305 crores till date as compared to Rs 83 crores only in GE LA 2018. This significant increase highlights the ECI’s efforts to curb the influence of money and illegal activities during the election process. The CEC also directed the Coast Guard and Narcotics Control Bureau officials to keep strict vigil and help curtail the drug menace.
The ECI also emphasized the importance of social media in today’s time and directed officials to keep a strict watch over it to prevent any violations and fake narratives that could vitiate the election atmosphere. The officials were urged to raise the bar further on voter turnout, gender, youth, and urban electors’ participation.
The neighboring states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Goa, share borders with Karnataka, and have a total of 185 interstate check posts. The ECI has directed officials to enhance vigilance on these borders and ensure that the election process is free from any illicit activities.
