Manmeet Sidhu
Sri Muktsar Sahib, April 8:
District Electoral Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner Mr. MK Aravind Kumar called the citizen of district to use voter friendly ECI Mobile Apps, websites as well as Helpline which were launched by Election Commission of India (ECI) to facilitate the political parties, contesting candidates and voters.
He said this is a novel way to ensure the electoral participation of the techno savvy youth besides simplifying the poll related works and bringing its functioning in tune with the changing times. He said that these can be used by candidates and political parties to submit mandatory filings/statements or request certain permissions apart from being extremely helpful to the citizens.
District Electoral Officer (DEO) said that one of the App launched by ECI is Suvidha App. It's a single window system for both candidates and political parties to apply for permissions before conducting meetings, rallies, etc. This can also be done through the Android app. The ECI has also issued directions to give permissions within 24 hours once candidates/parties make a request.
The DEO further added that another important app is c-VIGIL which provides time-stamped, evidence based proof of the Model Code of Conduct / Expenditure Violation, having live photo/video with auto location data.
Any citizen can lodge a complaint through the Mobile App. Flying Squads then investigate the matter and the Returning Officer takes the decision. The status of c-VIGIL can be shared with the c-VIGIL complainant within a specified time limit.
Another new Android-based mobile app called ‘Voter Helpline’ has also been launched. This App provides convenience to all citizens for finding their names in the electoral roll, submitting online forms, checking the status of the application, filing complaints and receiving the reply on their mobile app besides knowing the contact details of Booth Level Officers, Electoral Registration Officers and District Election Officers, by using the Voter Helpline Mobile App or through www.nvsp.in portal or by calling 1950 Helpline Number.
In the same line, services through SMS can also be availed by citizens by sending SMS without any cost to 1950. All forms, results, candidate affidavits, press notes, voter awareness and important instructions are available through the mobile app.
The DEO also divulged that ‘PwD App’ has also been launched to enable Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to request for new registration, change in address, change in particulars and mark themselves as PwD through the use of the mobile application was also launched. By simply entering their contact details, the Booth Level Officer is assigned to provide doorstep facility.
He urged the citizens of district to avail these services via these mobile apps.