Chennai, February 26: The Election Commission has conducted a review of preparations for the upcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Dr. Sukbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi, carried out a comprehensive assessment of the election readiness in the state.
During this review, the Commission met with representatives from all recognized National and state political parties in Tamil Nadu to gather their opinions and suggestions. This included parties such as the Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, Bharatiya Janata Party, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Indian National Congress, National People’s Party, All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Naam Tamilar Katchi, and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi.
Political parties praised the thorough review of voter lists and the peaceful conduct of elections. They also called for measures to curb the use of money power and the distribution of freebies during elections, an increase in the number of flying squads to prevent malpractices, and consideration of upcoming festivals when determining election dates. The Chief Election Commissioner assured that all suggestions would be taken into account and emphasized that elections would always be conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner according to the law.
The Commission inspected all aspects of the election plan, including EVM management, logistics, training of election staff, seizures, law and order, voter awareness, and outreach activities. It directed relevant officials to maintain impartiality in all activities and to avoid any form of inducement or pressure.
Election officials were specifically instructed to ensure voter convenience and accessibility at polling stations, provide thorough training to staff, and maintain complete awareness of all electoral processes. The Commission also reminded all officials that any deviation from laws, rules, and Election Commission guidelines during elections would not be tolerated, and any irregularities would be addressed with a zero-tolerance policy.
The Election Commission clarified that all preparations for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections would be completed on time and effectively, ensuring that voting is conducted with full fairness and transparency.
