ECI Addresses Congress’ Concerns On Maharashtra Assembly Poll Voter Turnout

New Delhi [India], December 24: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has cleared misconceptions on voter turnout amidst concerns raised by the Congress party after the Maharashtra Assembly elections. In its detailed response to the Congress party, the apex poll body explained the process behind the aggregation of voter turnout data during the election.

1. Addressing Congress Concerns:
   The Election Commission of India (ECI) has responded to concerns raised by the Congress party regarding voter turnout in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, offering clarifications on the aggregation process.
2. Voter Turnout Aggregation Explained:
   The ECI clarified that the increase in voter turnout from 5 pm to 11:45 pm is a normal part of the aggregation process. It also emphasized that discrepancies between “Votes Polled” and “Votes Counted” can occur but are inconsequential and natural.
3. Voter Turnout Data Transparency:
   The Commission reiterated that altering voter turnout is impossible. Statutory Form 17C, which contains details of voter turnout, is available to authorized agents of candidates immediately after the polls close at each polling station.
4. VTR App Clarification:
   The ECI elaborated on the process behind the VTR (Voter Turnout Reporting) App, which only provides facilitative updates during the day. It is not the official source of final turnout data, which comes from Form 17C.
5. Electoral Roll Updates Explained:
   In response to allegations from Congress regarding the addition of new voters, the ECI clarified that there were no arbitrary additions or deletions in Maharashtra’s electoral rolls. Voter additions and deletions followed proper procedures, with full involvement of political parties.
6. Refuting Allegations of Voter Manipulation:
   The ECI rejected Congress’ claim that 50,000 electors were added to 50 constituencies between July and November 2024, stating that only six constituencies saw additions of more than 50,000 electors. The claim that 47 constituencies were won by Mahayuti based on this was factually incorrect.
7. Election Process Transparency:
   The ECI emphasized that the process for adding or deleting voters is rule-based, transparent, and has adequate checks. Political parties are involved at every step, ensuring fair and accurate electoral roll preparation.
8. Discrepancies in Deletions Addressed:
   The Commission clarified that the deletion of voters—averaging 2,779 per Assembly Constituency—was the result of factors like death, relocation, or duplicate entries, with due process followed, including participation by Congress representatives.
9. Involvement of Political Parties:
   The ECI listed nearly 60 instances where political parties or candidates were proactively involved throughout the electoral process, reinforcing the participatory and transparent nature of elections.
10. Data Availability:
    The ECI assured Congress that all requested data regarding electors and Form 20 for each constituency is available on the CEO Maharashtra website and can be downloaded for review.
11. Ongoing Collaboration:
    The Commission emphasized its commitment to maintaining transparency and collaboration with all political parties. It welcomed constructive suggestions for further improving the electoral process.