Election Commission Amends Rules: The Election Commission has amended rules related to elections, stating that CCTV footage from polling booths will no longer be accessible to candidates or the general public. This decision has drawn sharp criticism from Congress, which accused the move of undermining the transparency of the electoral process.
Key Changes in Rules:
- CCTV Footage Excluded: Under the earlier Conduct of Election Rules, Section 93(2) allowed election-related documents to be inspected by the public with court permission. Now, electronic records such as CCTV footage are excluded from this provision.
- Election Commission’s Justification: The commission stated that the decision aims to protect voters’ privacy and security, especially in sensitive areas like Jammu & Kashmir and Naxal-affected regions, where public access to CCTV footage could pose serious security risks.
Congress’s Opposition:
Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh announced that the party will challenge the amendments in court, calling it an attack on the integrity and transparency of elections.
Background of the Controversy:
Recently, the Punjab and Haryana High Court directed the Election Commission to provide election-related documents, including CCTV footage, to advocate Mahmood Pracha, who had filed a petition seeking copies of videography, CCTV footage, and Form 17-C from the Haryana Assembly elections.
Commission’s Argument:
- Risk of AI Manipulation: Officials warned that public access to CCTV footage could lead to tampering using AI tools.
- Security and Privacy Concerns: The commission emphasized that footage could reveal voter identities, endangering their safety.
- Unchanged Access to Other Documents: All election-related documents remain available for inspection, except for electronic records such as CCTV footage.
Congress has labeled the changes as dangerous for democracy, claiming they weaken the credibility of the electoral process. However, the Election Commission defended the amendments, stating that they are necessary for safeguarding voters and ensuring a secure electoral process.
