Enhancing Transparency: Webcasting to Cover Half of Polling Stations in Maharashtra During Lok Sabha Elections

Pune, 29th February 2024: In a move aimed at bolstering transparency and efficiency in the electoral process, webcasting will be deployed at 50% of the polling stations across each district of Maharashtra during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This decision, announced by Shrikant Deshpande, the Chief Electoral Officer of the Election Commission of Maharashtra, underscores a commitment to ensuring the integrity of the electoral system.

Previously limited to sensitive and highly sensitive polling stations, the expansion of webcasting to half of all polling stations marks a significant stride in leveraging technology to uphold the principles of democracy. With over 46 thousand polling stations set to be equipped with webcasting capabilities, voters and stakeholders can expect a more secure and transparent electoral experience.

Explaining the rationale behind this decision, Deshpande emphasized the importance of identifying and addressing potential challenges in the voting process. By distributing voter slips door-to-door and maintaining separate lists for deceased or non-resident voters, electoral authorities can streamline operations and mitigate disruptions. Webcasting will be particularly prioritized in polling stations with a higher concentration of such voters, facilitating real-time monitoring and response.

This initiative not only fosters greater accountability but also serves as a proactive measure for crowd management, minimizing the impact of unexpected gatherings at polling stations. As Maharashtra gears up for the Lok Sabha elections, the integration of webcasting reflects a concerted effort to uphold the democratic principles of transparency, integrity, and inclusivity.