EC Refutes JMM’s Claims on Reduced Rural Voting Hours

97% of polling stations to operate from 7 AM to 5 PM, says Commission

Key Points:

• EC dismisses JMM’s allegations as baseless and lacking factual support

• Only 3% of polling stations have reduced hours due to Naxal concerns

• Significant improvement in voting duration compared to previous elections

JAMSHEDPUR – The Election Commission (EC) strongly rebuts Jharkhand Mukti Morcha’s accusations regarding curtailed voting hours in rural areas.

The Chief Electoral Officer clarified that JMM’s claims are unfounded.

Jharkhand has a total of 29,562 polling stations across the state.

Of these, 24,520 are located in rural areas, while 5,042 are in urban zones.

The EC confirmed that 97% of all polling stations will operate from 7 AM to 5 PM.

Only 981 polling stations in Naxal-affected rural areas have slightly reduced hours.

These stations will be open from 7 AM to 4 PM due to security concerns.

The Commission highlighted improvements compared to previous state elections.

In 2014, 89% of polling stations had shorter voting hours, closing at 3 PM.

The 2019 elections saw 63% of stations with reduced hours.

This year, only 3% of stations have slightly shortened voting periods.

The EC attributes this improvement to their special efforts in expanding voting access.

Furthermore, the Commission emphasized that voting hours are publicly announced.

Any voter in line at the end of polling time will still be allowed to cast their vote.

This policy ensures that all citizens have the opportunity to participate in the electoral process.

The EC’s statement aims to dispel misinformation and ensure voter confidence.

These clarifications underscore the Commission’s commitment to fair and accessible elections.

The extended voting hours reflect efforts to increase voter participation across Jharkhand.