CEC asks U'khnd govt to stop misappropriation of discretionary

The Election Commission has asked Uttarakhand government to look into alleged misappropriation of discretionary funds in the state and ensure that they are utilised as per the rules.

"Taking cognizance of complaints by political parties that discretionary funds were being misused in Uttarakhand for purposes other than the ones they were meant for, we have spoken to the Chief Secretary asking him to look into the matter and ensure that such funds are used strictly in accordance with the provisions," Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi told reporters here at the end of his two-day visit to the state to review poll preparations.
 

Zaidi had held a meeting with political parties in the state yesterday to take their feedback and suggestions on conducting free and fair polls in the state and there were complaints about misappropriation of discretionary funds by authorities to influence voters.

Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPATS) will also be used for the first time along with EVMs in Uttarakhand which will make the voter sure of the candidate he has voted for, he said

The law enforcements agencies in the state have been asked to start taking preventive action in the pre-election period like verification of licensed arms and verification of history sheeters to instill confidence among voters and build an atmosphere conducive for free and fair polls, he said.

All steps should be taken to prevent misuse of money, liquor and drugs to influence voters, the CEC said.

The state election office has also been asked to conduct special voter education drives to encourage more and more voters to exercise their right to franchise, he said adding that the turnout target fixed for Uttarakhand this time is 80 per cent.

Zaidi said all sections of voters should be involved in the electoral process including disabled people and the tribes including Van Gujjars, Bhutias and nomads.

Auxiliary polling stations will be built in hilly terrain where people have to traverse long distances to reach polling stations, he said adding polling stations will also be set up close to blind schools and leper homes to make them a part of the electoral process.