Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar recently highlighted concerns over low voter turnout in urban constituencies, calling for efforts to increase participation during a review meeting on Friday.
Noting a sharp contrast between urban and rural voter engagement, Kumar emphasised that turnout in some metropolitan areas remains significantly lower compared to regions known for challenging conditions, such as those affected by Naxalism.
In the 2019 elections, for instance, urban constituencies like Colaba recorded a turnout of only 40 percent, whereas rural areas such as Bastar and Gadchiroli saw turnouts of 68 and 78 percent, respectively.
Kumar questioned Maharashtra officials, pointing out the example of high voter engagement in regions like Jammu & Kashmir. In districts like Doda, Reasi, Poonch, and Rajouri, turnout exceeded 70 percent, even in sensitive areas.
He highlighted that Kishtwar district had achieved a full 100 percent turnout, urging urban areas such as Pune, Thane, and Mumbai to work toward similar numbers. Sensitive regions like Manipur also recorded impressive engagement, with 78 percent turnout in the 2024 General Election, illustrating that voter participation can be high despite adversity.
Further addressing the gap, Kumar pointed to an alarming trend in certain high-rise societies in Gurgaon and Faridabad, where turnout reached as low as 20 percent, despite polling stations set up within the complexes.
He urged officials to take steps to actively engage urban voters, emphasising the use of various mediums to communicate the importance of voting as both a right and a civic duty.
The CEC directed District Election Officers (DEOs), Police Commissioners, Superintendents of Police (SPs), Municipal Commissioners, and Returning Officers (ROs) to ensure voter-friendly environments at polling stations.
He emphasized that polling locations should provide basic amenities, such as benches for voters in high-density areas, to make the voting process as comfortable as possible.
Additionally, Kumar underlined the importance of accessibility and grievance handling, instructing officials to be available to all stakeholders, ensuring a transparent process.
He stressed the need for a level playing field for all parties and candidates, warning that any violation of these standards would prompt swift action. The CEC urged officials to involve candidates or their representatives in all stages of the electoral process, in adherence to Election Commission guidelines.
Kumar also highlighted the need for vigilance against any attempts to manipulate voters through illegal inducements, including cash, alcohol, drugs, or other forms of bribery.
He called for close monitoring of government vehicles, such as ambulances and other official vans, to prevent their misuse in transporting cash or valuables intended to influence votes.
A key point raised during the meeting was the issue of derogatory remarks targeting women leaders during the election campaign. Sources in the Chief Electoral Office of Maharashtra revealed that CEC Kumar strongly condemned such remarks, expressing concern over their detrimental impact on the dignity and honour of women. He emphasised that political parties and candidates must refrain from using offensive language or actions that could harm the integrity of women.
The CEC issued a clear directive to all officials to take immediate and firm action against any statements that insult women or otherwise violate the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) provisions. He also reminded officials that public criticism should be limited to political actions and public roles, with no attacks on the private lives of individuals.
Kumar emphasised that personal insults and disrespectful language have no place in a democratic campaign, urging all candidates and party leaders to conduct themselves with respect and maintain a high standard of public discourse.
As the 81-member Jharkhand Assembly prepares for its two-phase election on November 13 and 20, with vote counting scheduled for November 23, the Election Commission has made it clear that fair and respectful conduct is expected.
Kumar’s directives reflect a commitment to ensuring that the electoral process is dignified, accessible, and free of intimidation or undue influence, aiming to improve voter participation and uphold democratic standards in India’s elections.
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