The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): The Election Commission of India’s cVIGIL app has emerged as a powerful tool for citizens to report violations of the election code of conduct. Since the announcement of the General Elections 2024, the app has received over 79,000 complaints, with an impressive 99% of cases already resolved. Remarkably, close to 89% of these complaints were addressed within a swift 100-minute timeframe, highlighting the app’s efficiency and transparency.
The majority of complaints, accounting for 73% of the total, pertained to illegal hoardings and banners. Approximately 1,400 complaints were related to the distribution of money, gifts, and liquor, while 3% (2,454) dealt with the defacement of property. Out of the 535 complaints received for the display of firearms and intimidation, an impressive 529 have already been resolved. Additionally, 1,000 complaints were reported for campaigning beyond the permitted period, including the use of speakers outside the allowed time.
The cVIGIL app represents a significant advancement in electoral oversight and the reduction of campaign clutter. During the press conference announcing the General Elections 2024, Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and utilize the app to report any violations of the model code of conduct or the distribution of inducements to voters.
The user-friendly and easy-to-operate cVIGIL app connects vigilant citizens with the District Control Room, Returning Officer, and Flying Squads Teams. By using this app, citizens can promptly report incidents of political misconduct within minutes, without the need to physically visit the office of the returning officer. Upon submitting a complaint through the cVIGIL app, the complainant receives a unique ID, enabling them to track the progress of their complaint on their mobile device.
The success of the cVIGIL app can be attributed to a trinity of factors working in unison. Users can capture audios, photos, or videos in real-time, and a “100-minute” countdown ensures a time-bound response to complaints. The app automatically enables a geo-tagging feature when users switch on their camera to report a violation, allowing flying squads to pinpoint the precise location of the reported incident. The images captured by citizens can also serve as evidence in a court of law. Moreover, the app allows citizens to report complaints anonymously, encouraging greater participation and transparency.
The cVIGIL app is just one of the many technological tools developed by the Election Commission to facilitate voters and political parties. By leveraging digital technology, the Commission aims to ensure free, fair, and inducement-free polls, promoting a more transparent and accountable electoral process.
As the General Elections 2024 approach, the cVIGIL app has proven to be a game-changer in empowering citizens to actively participate in the democratic process and hold political parties and candidates accountable for their actions. With its impressive track record of resolving complaints and its user-friendly interface, the app is set to play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and fairness of the upcoming elections.