In a significant move to guarantee free and fair elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to dispatch 470 observers for the eagerly anticipated Bihar Assembly elections and seven upcoming by-polls. This substantial deployment aims to ensure a truly level playing field for all political contenders.
The observers, comprising 320 IAS officers, 60 IPS officers, and 90 officials from various other services, will act as the ECI’s vigilant ‘eyes and ears’ throughout the electoral process. Their crucial role includes monitoring general conduct, policing, and expenditure to prevent any malpractices.
A vital briefing for these dedicated officers is scheduled for October 3 in New Delhi. This session will precede the Election Commission’s visit to Bihar, planned for the following day, where they will conduct a comprehensive review of the state’s poll preparedness. The current 243-member Bihar assembly’s term concludes on November 22, with the elections themselves expected to be held sometime in November.