Pune: cVigil App Records 79,000 Complaints Nationwide for Poll Code Violations, Over 1,000 in Maharashtra

Since the announcement of the general election two weeks ago, the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) cVigil app has received a staggering total of 79,000 violations reported across the country. 

Most complaints were swiftly resolved within 100 minutes, boasting a disposal rate of 99%, according to election officials. A significant portion of these complaints pertained to illegal hoardings and banners, with additional reports concerning liquor distribution and property defacement.

The cVigil app harnesses digital technology to ensure free, fair, and inducement-free elections by empowering citizens to report incidents of political misconduct promptly and efficiently, without the need to directly approach the returning officer. The designated time frame for resolution by election officials is set at 100 minutes, allowing for swift action.

Across all states, authorities have been instructed to compile two lists of complaints: those resolved within the stipulated 100-minute timeframe and those requiring additional attention. Among the reported violations, the majority—more than 58,500 complaints—were related to illegal hoardings and banners, while over 1,400 complaints involved the distribution of money, gifts, and liquor.

Additionally, approximately 2,454 complaints were filed for the defacement of property. Notably, data revealed that of the 535 complaints concerning the display of firearms and intimidation tactics, 529 were successfully resolved. Furthermore, around 1,000 complaints were lodged for campaigning activities extending beyond the prohibited period, including the unauthorized use of speakers.

In Maharashtra alone, 1,167 cases of poll code violations have been reported, with 1,158 cases already disposed of, demonstrating the app’s effectiveness in addressing electoral misconduct swiftly and efficiently.