The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken action following reports of disturbances during voting in Hanur, part of the Chamarajanagar Lok Sabha Constituency in Karnataka.
On Saturday, the ECI announced re-polling at polling booth number 146 in Hanur, scheduled for April 29. This decision came after careful consideration of reports from the Returning Officer and General Observer, which deemed the voting on Friday invalid due to significant disruptions.
The turmoil erupted at the polling station in Indiganatha village, Chamarajanagara district, where clashes broke out between two groups of people. Allegedly, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were damaged amid the confrontation.
The dispute originated from differing opinions among voters: while some were dissatisfied with the lack of infrastructural development in the constituency and abstained from voting, others were adamant about exercising their right to vote.
The disagreement escalated into a physical altercation, leading to damage to the EVMs and rendering the voting process ineffective. Consequently, the Election Commission intervened to address the situation and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
The decision to conduct re-polling reflects the Commission’s commitment to ensuring fair and transparent elections, despite the challenges faced during the initial polling.
The re-polling initiative aims to provide an opportunity for eligible voters in Hanur to cast their ballots without disruptions or undue influence. It underscores the importance of civic participation and the democratic right to vote in shaping the future of the constituency.
The Election Commission emphasizes the need for peaceful conduct during elections, urging all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and cooperation to prevent any further incidents of violence or sabotage.
Local authorities including the state Chief Electoral Officer, have been instructed to facilitate the re-polling process effectively. Measures will be implemented to enhance security and maintain order at the polling booth to prevent a recurrence of the previous disturbances.
In addition, voter awareness campaigns will be intensified to encourage maximum participation and ensure that citizens are well-informed about the importance of their votes in the democratic process.
The Election Commission remains vigilant in monitoring the electoral proceedings in Hanur and will take necessary actions to uphold the sanctity of the re-polling exercise. It reiterates its commitment to conducting free, fair, and peaceful elections, safeguarding the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution of India.
As the country awaits the outcome of the re-polling, all eyes are on Hanur, where the electorate will once again have the opportunity to shape the future direction of their constituency through the power of their votes.
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