Sir — This refers to the editorial, “A spectacular show” (May 13). The Election Commission has done a superb job, considering that the dice was heavily loaded against it, in reducing rampant electoral malpractices and keeping the lid shut on hate speeches.
It did well in ensuring a peaceful poll, devoid of significant clashes at booths. It also did reasonably well in explaining its stand on the allegations of being a partisan entity.
Though the 10-phase election could have been a necessity for the EC, it should find ways to curtail the long-drawn process in the future. A marathon election process brings all important decision-making to a grinding halt. The EC should also act on the large-scale missing voter rolls in some constituencies.
However, the winner of 2014 poll is the voter who braved interspersed Government holidays, children’s vacations, scorching heat, and threat perceptions in certain areas to record a 66 per cent turnout. Advertisements, peer advice and relaxation of rules by rigid office managers who might have given a day-off to their employees, also helped.
But the biggest motivation factor for the voters was the presence of Mr Narendra Modi and his captivating development-oriented speeches. People had begun to sense a change of guard, and were eager to be part of such a change. As exit polls have trickled in, people’s belief stands vindicated, and they cannot wait for May 16.