EC to appoint 530 observers for five state polls

In all 530 observers would keep an eye on the conduct of the candidates and political parties in the five state - Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Mizoram - where Legislative Assembly elections are being held from November 14 to December 4.

The observers, appointed by the Election Commissioner, would reach the constituencies on the day of last date of withdrawal of candidature and remained there till the declaration of the results.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) N Gopalaswami and Commissioners Navin B Chawla and S Y Quarishi today briefed the observers here today. The commission would hold meeting of the observers for Chhattisgarh separately, sources said.

A spokesperson of the commission said the observers have been asked to ensure that the affidavits filed by the candidates at the time of nomination detailing their assets, and other particulars are displayed prominently and made available for public scrutiny as soon as possible.

Gopalaswami asked the officers to tour their respective allotted Assembly Constituencies extensively and build confidence among weaker and disadvantaged sections.

The CEC asked the observers to ensure extensive videography of all critical events during and prior to the election.