Delhi Assembly Elections
The elections for Delhi’s 70 assembly seats will be conducted in a single phase on February 5, with results declared on February 8. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar announced this on Tuesday.
The entire election process will be completed within 33 days from the announcement of dates to the declaration of results. Compared to 2015 and 2020, this year’s schedule is advanced by a week.
During a 90-minute press conference, CEC Rajiv Kumar addressed Delhi elections for only 10 minutes, spending most of the time responding to allegations about EVM tampering, voter list discrepancies, and claims of selective voter exclusion. Kumar emphasized that questioning electoral processes sets a negative trend and impacts young voters. He highlighted that the Supreme Court has dismissed allegations against EVMs in the past.
Key Details:
- Voters: 15.5 million
- Polling Stations: Over 33,000
Election Commission’s Response to Five Major Allegations
1. Voter List Manipulation
CEC Rajiv Kumar expressed disappointment over claims of voter name deletions or misplacements. He explained the process:
- A survey is conducted every January, starting in October, to update voter rolls.
- Draft rolls are shared publicly for objections and corrections.
- Any deletions require personal hearings, and over 2% discrepancies are re-verified by officers.
Accusation:
Former CM Arvind Kejriwal and CM Atishi alleged on December 29, 2024, that over 5,000 AAP supporters were removed from the voter list in the New Delhi constituency.
2. EVM Tampering
Rajiv Kumar defended EVMs, describing them as tamper-proof:
- EVMs are sealed in the presence of agents, and mock polls are conducted to verify accuracy.
- Post-poll, machines are securely stored, and votes are counted after multiple verifications.
The Supreme Court has upheld the reliability of EVMs, dismissing concerns about hacking.
Accusation:
Congress claimed EVM tampering during Haryana elections in October 2024, while Kejriwal in 2017 suggested EVM hacking methods.
3. Increased Voter Turnout After 5 PM
Responding to allegations of inflated turnout percentages post-5 PM, Kumar clarified that voters in line are allowed to vote even after polling officially closes. The counting process follows strict protocols, ensuring accuracy.
Accusation:
Congress and TMC leaders questioned voter turnout figures during the Lok Sabha elections in April 2024.
4. Restricted Access to Polling Booth Footage
The EC cited voter privacy as the reason for not sharing polling booth recordings. Public disclosure could compromise voter confidentiality, making their identities and choices vulnerable.
Accusation:
In December 2024, Congress challenged rules restricting access to CCTV footage and other records, alleging an attempt to withhold electoral transparency.
5. Allegations of Financial Bias During Elections
Kumar rejected claims of selective financial scrutiny, asserting that all parties undergo checks. He urged political parties and campaigners to maintain decorum during inspections.
Accusation:
During the Maharashtra elections, Uddhav Thackeray criticized the EC for allegedly targeting his belongings while ignoring others.
Additional Information
- The current Delhi assembly’s term ends on February 23, 2025.
- In the last assembly elections (2020), polling occurred on February 6.
The EC remains committed to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections despite challenges and allegations.
The Election Commission remains committed to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections, despite the challenges and allegations that have surfaced in recent months. The 2025 Delhi Assembly elections are set to be an important event, with over 15.5 million voters expected to cast their ballots across more than 33,000 polling stations. While accusations regarding voter list discrepancies, EVM tampering, and other concerns have been raised, the EC has firmly defended the integrity of the electoral process and continues to uphold the standards of fairness and transparency. With the elections just around the corner, all eyes are on the EC as it strives to ensure a smooth, credible election process.
