State Poll Office Has No Info About Simultaneous Elections Says Vikas Raj

Hyderabad: Stating that there is clarity on the 'One nation-One Election' formula, Telangana chief electoral officer (CEO) Vikas Raj explained that they are now focussing on conducting elections as per their schedule.

Vikas Raj, who has been busy with review meetings of different wings, including law enforcement agencies, is concentrating on conducting elections that are devoid of money, muscle and liquor influences.

In an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle, he dwelt in detail about various aspects, including administrative issues.

Did you get any leads about implementing One Nation-One election?

We are now focussing on the existing guidelines to conduct free and fair elections in Telangana. We only see it in the media and we will act as per Election Commission of India guidelines.

Can you explain measures taken to prevent money, liquor, and muscle power in elections?

Well, we conducted a review meeting with 18 law enforcement agencies, including central forces a few days ago, and directed them to take measures to prevent liquor, money and other such temptations from influencing voters. We have prepared a ground to create awareness among voters not to accept money from leaders.

Recently, a public representative commented that if a voter pressed any button on EVM, he would get votes. Are EVMs tamper-proof?

No one can tamper with EVMs and it is only a perception. We will allow candidates to check votes with VVPATS. We urge voters not to believe rumours and come to the polling stations and cast their votes. We have readied 72,000 EVMs for the ensuing elections.

There is confusion about enrolment of voters and deletion of names in many areas. How will you handle such sensitive issues?

We are here to protect the rights of voters. We have formed a number of teams, which visit educational institutes, localities and interact with residential associations for enrolling voters. In GHMC areas, we directed officials not to neglect any enrollment or deletion issue. The voter can check the status by using official apps.

How can people reach the Election Commission to raise complaints?

We introduced cVigil App in which the citizens can lodge their complaints. Not only can the voter get to know the status, citizens can complain about any issue related to elections. We will respond and resolve them immediately.