Election Commission gave strict instructions to 282 observers of Assam-Kerala-Puducherry!

The Election Commission has issued detailed guidelines to the central observers appointed for the Assam, Kerala and Puducherry assembly elections. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioner Dr. S. S. Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi held a review meeting through video conferencing with all central observers, police and expenditure observers.

According to the Election Commission, a total of 282 central observers have been deployed in these three states/union territories. These include 136 observers for Assam, 108 for Kerala and 38 for Puducherry. In the meeting, the Chief Election Commissioner stressed that the elections should be conducted in a festive atmosphere, in a fair, free and fear-free environment. Any kind of threat, violence or inducement should be strictly stopped.

The Commission has instructed the observers to ensure strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct. Immediate action has been taken in case of any violation. Also, instructions have been given to prominently display the contact numbers of supervisors and timing of complaint hearing in public places.

Observers have been asked to pay special attention in monitoring the voting process. This includes checking of training of presiding officers, uploading of voter turnout information within 2 hours, correct use of indelible ink at polling booth and correct filling and sharing of Form 17-C. Emphasis was laid on ensuring presence of polling agents, conducting mock polls and availability of polling material.

The Election Commission has directed to provide mobile phone deposit facility, benches for voter queues and minimum facilities at all polling stations. Also, the webcasting monitoring control room has been asked to be properly checked and the staff deployed there should be trained to identify and report errors.

The Commission clarified that assembly elections in Assam, Kerala and Puducherry are to be held on 9 April 2026. Voting will be held in a single phase at all three places. Central observers have been asked to keep a strict eye on monitoring of election expenditure, illegal campaigning, distribution of cash and inducements like liquor and meat.