International Delegates Laud Transparency and Efficiency of India’s General Elections

New Delhi: In a remarkable display of international cooperation and observation, a diverse group of delegates from around the world participated in India’s General Election 2024, expressing admiration for the country’s transparent, inclusive, and accessible electoral process.

The largest-ever contingent of international delegates witnessed the polling process firsthand during the recently concluded third phase of elections as part of the International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP). Polling took place across 93 Constituencies in 11 States/UTs, providing the delegates with an immersive experience into the intricacies of Indian democracy.

Hailing from countries spanning Cambodia, Tunisia, Moldova, Seychelles, Nepal, Bhutan, Mongolia, Israel, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Chile, Georgia, Maldives, Namibia, Papua New Guinea, Uzbekistan, Fiji, Australia, Russia, Madagascar, Kyrgyz Republic, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, and Zimbabwe, the delegates observed various aspects of the electoral process across different states.

In Karnataka, delegates interacted with polling officers and presiding officers, witnessing mock polls and visiting command control centers. Similar experiences were shared in other states, with delegates from Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra gaining insights into the electoral process, including transparency measures, the involvement of political parties, and media in polling stations, and the use of technology for randomization of EVM-VVPATs.

Specifically, the delegates commended the transparency exemplified by mock polls, the involvement of candidates’ representatives, and the accessibility initiatives such as Polling Stations for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) and Pink Polling Stations. They also expressed appreciation for the vibrant democracy observed in India, highlighting the enthusiasm and active participation of Indian citizens in the democratic process.

The visit also served as a platform for cultural exchange, with delegates immersing themselves in India’s rich heritage and architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal.

Overall, the international delegates lauded India’s General Elections as a peaceful, inclusive, and accessible exercise, affirming the country’s commitment to democratic ideals and setting an inspiring example for electoral processes worldwide.