Election Commission of India (ECI) found poll preparedness in Gujarat satisfactory in view of upcoming general elections, said deputy election commissioner of ECI, Vinod Zutshi after having a day-long review meeting with district electoral officers (DEOs), District Superintendent of Police (DSPs), Police Commissioners of major cities and top officials of the State.
Talking to reporters Zutshi said that he met representatives of six national political parties in group as well as individually. “Their suggestions on curbing paid news menace, money power and deployment of adequate women on electoral duty will be considered,” he said adding that the election commission will organise a workshop of political parties to brief them about the new guidelines of the commission.
He said that he has also instructed chief electoral officer (CEO), Gujarat, to start voter helpline in all districts within a week as well as to organise special training for police officials in connection with lok Sabha elections. “In order to maintain law and order situation during the election identification process has been completed to track those elements creating problems for voters and officials. A list of such elements has been handed over to related police stations,” he said.
According to the data released by ECI, nearly 18 lakh voters in the State has been increased since last Assembly elections in 2012. From nearly 3.80 crore voters to 3.98 crore voters and 9.50 lakh voters have become eligible for the first time to use their franchise.
Meanwhile, Gujarat BJP, in their memorandum made 23 suggestions. The BJP demanded action against the candidate in corrupt practice even in the case of defeat in the polls. At present, the provision allows action against elected candidate only. The saffron brigade also demanded to decrease election contesting age from 25 to 21 years. It also proposed to the ECI for not giving registration to new parties in short period like the Aam Aadmi Party, saying “such last moment approvals should not be given to any new party nor a common symbol should be allotted. Any party should have a minimum one year period of operation in any state before giving such permissions.
The Con without naming BJP said that some parties are collecting fund in the name of Dhan Sanchay and demanded to have norms to stop such practice.