In search of free and fair polls...MMAB forwards list of suggestions to CEC
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 01 2024:
The Manipuri Meitei Association, Bangalore (MMAB) has made several suggestions to the Chief Election Commissioner of India to ensure free and fair elections in Manipur.
A representation it submitted to the CEC yesterday said the Election Commission should take up special arrangements to instill confidence in voters amidst the prevailing tension in Manipur.
More than 200 lives have been lost and over 70,000 people have been displaced by the ongoing violence in Manipur.
Despite the deployment of significant number of security forces, efforts to curb violence have been ineffective.
"We seek clarification on special arrangements [made] to instill confidence in voters amidst the prevailing insecurity," said the Manipuri Meitei Association, Bangalore.
It raised the issues of illegal influx of Chin-Kuki immigrants from Myanmar and illegal entries in the electoral rolls.
While urging the CEC to prevent voter fraud, it said many legitimate voters have lost their EPIC/voter ID cards in the crisis and their concerns should be addressed appropriately.
The association further urged the CEC to place enhanced security measures for a gun-free environment during the elections, and ensure free movement of candidates, election officials and security forces on National Highways which have come under blockade by "Kuki miscreants" .
With a significant number of polling booths spread in sensitive areas, ensuring the safety and security of voters and candidates is paramount.
Additionally, measures should be taken to prevent any significant drop in voter turnout, it said in the representation.
The association further asserted that in some regions, individuals are facing pressure from Kuki militant groups leading to reluctance to participate in the election process.
Candidates are sometimes forced to withdraw from contesting elections and election campaigns of rival candidates are discouraged, it said, asking for adequate measures from the CEC to curb such practices.