The Himachal Pradesh election authorities have issued a new control room number for reporting poll violations. The move is aimed at ensuring free and fair elections in the state. Citizens can now report any instances of electoral malpractices, including bribery, intimidation, or misuse of government machinery, by dialing the new helpline number.
New Helpline for Voters
The Election Commission of India has set up a dedicated control room to address complaints related to the upcoming assembly elections. The new number, 1800-180-8000, is operational 24x7 and will remain active until the completion of the election process. Voters are encouraged to use this facility to report any violations they witness.
Importance of Reporting Violations
Reporting poll violations is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. The control room will handle complaints related to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violations, such as hate speech, distribution of freebies, and use of money power. The authorities have assured that the identity of the complainant will be kept confidential.
The Election Commission has also deployed flying squads and static surveillance teams to monitor compliance. In addition, the control room will coordinate with district election officers to ensure swift action on complaints.
How to Use the Control Room
Voters can call the toll-free number to register their complaints. They may also send a written complaint via email or visit the control room in person. The officials have urged citizens to provide accurate details, including the location, time, and nature of the violation, along with any supporting evidence such as photographs or videos.
This initiative is part of the Election Commission's efforts to conduct a transparent and credible election. The control room will also provide information on voter registration, polling booths, and other election-related queries.
Previous Measures
Earlier, the Election Commission had launched a mobile app for reporting violations. The app, named 'cVIGIL', allows users to capture and upload evidence of MCC violations in real-time. The new control room number complements these digital efforts, ensuring that even those without smartphones can report issues.
With the assembly elections approaching, the authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure a level playing field for all parties. The control room is expected to play a key role in deterring potential violators and maintaining the sanctity of the democratic process.
