AMN
In the backdrop of the reports of discrepancy during Rajya sabha polls in Haryana recently, the Election Commission of India ECI, has issued directions that in future, an integrated violet sketch pen of specific design and manufactured by a particular firm both approved by ECI, shall be used in all elections.
Such pen will be the instrument for recording preferences on ballot paper by the voter and at time of poll, it shall be given to each voter by the designated polling officer and shall be taken back from him after the voter comes out of the voting compartment.
Any deviation from it will not be allowed under any circumstance. The Commission has further elaborated the role and responsibilities of Chief Electoral Officer in above said elections. A robust on line complaint monitoring system as well as measures to curb ostentatious display of money power and training of officials at IIIDEM have also been put in place.