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New Delhi, Oct 17 (IANS) The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Friday held a meeting with heads of various enforcement agencies to chalk out a multi-pronged strategy for the smooth and fair conduct of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
Heads of several departments participated in the meeting chaired by CEC Gyanesh Kumar and shared their inputs, suggestions and feedback to make the voting process robust and foolproof.
Bihar Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP) also attended the meeting with the state Chief Electoral Officer through video conference.
There were also discussions on tackling the movement of cash, liquor, drugs and other inducements to influence voters ahead of the elections and the menace of fake news that has the potential to derail the course of the elections.
The committee discussed a number of matters including curbing secret expenditure by candidates and political parties, sharing of intelligence and cooperation between law enforcement agencies for effective action against any financial malpractices.
The Committee also deliberated on measures to check transportation of smuggled goods, drugs, liquor and cash, including counterfeit currency, through interstate borders and international borders.
At least 17 departments participated in the high-profile meeting, including CBDT, CBIC, ED, DRI, CEIB, FIU-IND, RBI, IBA, NCB, RPF, CISF, BSF, CRPF, SSB, BCAS, AAI and Department of Posts.
The Election Commission has made all efforts to make the election process comfortable and convenient for all sections of people and to expand the scope of the voter base.
It has issued detailed guidelines to make polling stations easily accessible and friendly for senior citizens, including setting up polling stations on the ground floor, giving priority to elderly citizens in voting, arranging wheelchairs especially for disabled people.
Some steps have also been taken to address concerns related to burqa-wearing women, an issue that has sparked debate among political parties over identity verification before voting.
–IANS
Shree/S.V.N