Following etnic violence in the state leading to displacement affecting over 50,000 individuals, the Election Commission in Manipur is bracing itself for the formidable task of conducting Lok Sabha elections in the region.
Pradeep Kumar Jha, Chief Electoral Officer, disclosed that special provisions have been made for approximately 24,500 displaced individuals to cast their votes from relief camps during the forthcoming elections.
“A total of 2,955 polling stations will be set up in the state for the Lok Sabha elections, out of which around 50% have been identified as sensitive, vulnerable or critical. We are also setting up 94 special polling stations to facilitate voting by internally displaced persons (IDPs),” Jha said.
In accordance with Election Commission of India (ECI) regulations, a vulnerability assessment of hamlets, villages, and electoral segments precedes the polls.
Jha emphasised the formation of special teams to address the concerns of affected voters with compassion.
“Special teams have been formed to deal with these voters with empathy and we have also started voter awareness activities. The activities are being designed keeping in mind the sentiments of the displaced people who have lost the comfort of being in their home and there is some level of frustration and negativity,” he added.
Voter awareness initiatives are also underway, tailored to the sentiments of displaced individuals grappling with the loss of their homes.
The conflict, initiated on May 3 last year following a 'Tribal Solidarity March,' has claimed the lives of 219 individuals, with over 50,000 internally displaced people seeking refuge across various relief centers in Manipur's valley and hill districts.
Scheduled across two phases on April 19 and 26, the Lok Sabha elections in Manipur have garnered attention due to the unique voting arrangements for the displaced population.
Highlighting voter demographics, Jha noted, “The state has traditionally been seeing a very high voting percentage in the previous elections, which is reflective of people’s faith in the electoral process. Even if some people are feeling negative about it, we are trying to create awareness about making each vote count and taking some confidence building measures."
Regarding security measures, Jha revealed the allocation of over 200 paramilitary forces companies to the state.
“The idea is not only to ensure that the displaced voters do not miss out on the chance but also that they feel safe. Adequate security arrangements are being made across the state. Video surveillance has already begun and the entry and exit points are being monitored...it is obvious to have concerns about security considering the conflict in the state. However, these concerns are being addressed,” he said.
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