The Election Commission of India (ECI) is scheduled to visit Patna, Bihar on October 4 and 5, 2025, to assess the state's preparedness for upcoming elections. The commission, led by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, will meet with key officials, including the Chief Electoral Officer, to review various aspects of the election machinery.
This visit comes shortly after the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. The Supreme Court has stated that the entire revision process can be scrapped even after the final voter list is published if any illegality is found. The ECI had earlier directed state election officers to be ready for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) by September 30, suggesting a possible voter list cleanup exercise in October-November.
The Election Commission's visit underscores its commitment to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections. By taking stock of the poll preparedness, the ECI aims to identify and address any potential gaps or shortcomings in the election machinery. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and upholding democratic principles.
The visit will involve meetings and discussions with relevant stakeholders to evaluate various aspects of election management, including: * Voter list accuracy: Ensuring that the electoral rolls are up-to-date and free from errors or discrepancies. * Polling station infrastructure: Assessing the adequacy and accessibility of polling stations for all voters. * Security arrangements: Reviewing the security measures in place to prevent any untoward incidents during the election process. * Logistics and transportation: Evaluating the arrangements for the smooth transportation of polling materials and personnel. * Training of polling staff: Ensuring that polling staff are adequately trained and equipped to conduct the elections efficiently and impartially.
The ECI's assessment will provide valuable insights into the state's readiness for the upcoming elections and enable timely corrective actions to be taken. The commission's focus on key areas such as voter list accuracy, infrastructure, security, and staff training demonstrates its commitment to conducting elections in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
