TFP Bureau, New Delhi; May 5, 2024: In a historic move underlining India’s democratic vibrancy, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has welcomed a record 75 delegates from 23 nations to witness the ongoing Indian General Elections, marking the largest international observer contingent in history.
The International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP), inaugurated in New Delhi today by Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar, underscores the ECI’s commitment to transparency and high electoral standards. Alongside Kumar were ECs Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Shri Sukhbir Singh Sandhu.
Addressing the delegates, CEC Rajiv Kumar emphasized India’s pivotal role in global democracy. He highlighted the unique democratic space India offers, with voluntary electoral participation distinguishing it from nations with compulsory voting systems. Kumar stressed the credibility of India’s electoral processes, validated by consistently high voter turnouts and near saturation of electoral rolls.
Kumar outlined the staggering scale of India’s electoral machinery, poised to welcome a 970 million-strong electorate with over 15 million polling personnel across 1 million polling stations nationwide. He invited delegates to witness India’s electoral diversity firsthand, likening the experience to a national festival of democracy.
Bilateral talks held on the event’s sidelines included interactions with Chief Election Commissioners from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Nepal, among others.
Earlier sessions provided delegates with comprehensive insights into India’s electoral practices, covering topics such as EVM-VVPAT systems, IT initiatives, and the role of media in elections. The programme will extend across six states—Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh—allowing observers to witness polls and preparations firsthand.
This year’s delegation comprises representatives from diverse Election Management Bodies (EMBs) and organizations, including countries like Bhutan, Mongolia, Australia, and Madagascar. Notably, members of the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and media teams from Bhutan and Israel are also participating.
The IEVP aims to acquaint foreign delegates with India’s electoral system and best practices, offering a unique opportunity to engage with one of the world’s largest democratic exercises. The programme concludes on May 9, 2024.
