In an unusual move during the silent period, a day ahead of Delhi elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) met with an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) delegation led by its National Convenor, Arvind Kejriwal along with Delhi CM Atishi.
Following the meeting, Kejriwal stated that the ECI had assured strict action against any electoral malpractices. “The Election Commission made an exception today for meeting us since they normally do not entertain parties during the silent period. We thank them,” he said while talking to reporters. “We raised some issues because of which there has been violence and hooliganism in some places. The EC has assured us of strict action, and that unbiased elections will be held. We also warned them of large-scale voter suppression. There are also chances that on a large scale, fingers of people are forcibly inked tonight and they are threatened into not voting tomorrow,” he added to his statement.
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Kejriwal further alleged that the BJP and Delhi Police were indulging in hooliganism at various places and that the ECI had promised strict action against such incidents. “BJP and Delhi Police are indulging in hooliganism at various places, the Election Commission has said that strict action will be taken on this. People should not be afraid to vote tomorrow due to the fear of hooliganism by the BJP and Delhi Police,” he said addressing the voters.
Following the meeting, the ECI issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to conducting an impartial election. “After meeting AAP delegation, ECI reiterates that all election officials should continue to work impartially and any partisan conduct disturbing level playing field will be unpardonable,” it said.
Further, sharing the list of observers, EC added, “EC directs all General, Police & Expenditure Observers to be in field & keep strict vigil including border areas throughout night, ensuring MCC is strictly followed. Take strong action against any act of inducement or intimidation.”
The ECI further encouraged citizens, parties, and candidates to report any election-related violations using the cVigil App. With polling set to take place, authorities are now under increased scrutiny to ensure a smooth, fair, and intimidation-free voting process.