The BRICS TimesThe State Election Commission has announced the dates for Nagar Panchayat and Nagar Parishad elections. Voting is set for December 2, and counting will take place on December 3. A special fix addresses the issue of duplicate voters.
Local Body Elections: The Horn Has Sounded
The local self-government elections are finally set. Today, November 4, the State Election Commission held a press conference. It officially announced the Nagar Panchayat and Nagar Parishad election schedule. Elections will now occur for 246 Nagar Parishads and 42 Nagar Panchayats statewide. This total includes 15 newly formed Nagar Panchayats. Earlier, Mahavikas Aghadi and MNS alleged voter list discrepancies. They claimed many voters were listed twice. These parties demanded a clean-up of voter lists first. Only then should the local body elections proceed, they had requested. The State Election Commission has now ignored these opposition objections. They have proceeded to declare the elections. Furthermore, they have introduced a solution to manage the duplicate voter chaos.
Digital Tools for Voters
The State Election Commission has developed a website for voters. Voters can easily search for their names on this portal. Also, a special mobile app has been created for voter convenience. This app helps voters find their name on the voter list. It also helps locate their specific polling station. The State Election Commission stated that voters can also check candidate details. This includes the number of criminal cases registered against them.
‘Double Star’ Solution Introduced
The State Election Commission has exercised full caution regarding potential duplicate names. They have developed a specific tool on their system. This tool will display a “double star” next to probable duplicate names. This will appear in the electoral roll for each ward. The “double star” will be visible in every Nagar Parishad and Nagar Panchayat area.
Verification of Name, Photo, and Address
The concerned official will check areas where the double star appears. They will ascertain where the voter will cast their vote in that polling station or ward. Their name, gender, photo, and address will all be thoroughly checked. The duplicate voter will only be allowed to vote at the designated polling center. They will be unable to vote at any other polling station.
Affidavit Required from Voter
If a voter with a double star offers no response, the star will show across all polling stations. Such a voter must sign an affidavit upon arrival at the polling center. The State Election Commission announced the voter must declare in writing. They must state they have not voted elsewhere. They also must promise not to vote at any other center.
