Challenges for ECI

Young voters must be encouraged to vote

As the world’s largest democracy gears up to vote, starting later this month, the Election Commission of India (ECI) must effectively manage its numerous responsibilities to uphold electoral integrity for ensuring the conduct of free and fair elections. None of the challenges faced by the ECI is novel but they have taken newer forms in recent years. While some amount of bickering is expected in competitive elections, the narrative can quickly take a dangerous turn in response to allegations and counter-allegations of politically motivated fake news. The acrimony in the country can be attributed to the ready mix of a