New Delhi: In a bid to ensure smooth and peaceful polling, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has stepped up its preparations for the 2026 General Elections and upcoming bye-elections by holding a high-level inter-state border review meeting.
The meeting, which was held on Tuesday, brought together Chief Secretaries, Chief Electoral Officers, Directors General of Police, and senior officials from five poll-bound states and Union Territories—Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal—along with representatives from 12 neighbouring states and central enforcement agencies.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners S.S. Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, reviewed key aspects of poll preparedness. Discussions focused on law and order, movement of illegal cash and materials, and strengthening coordination between states, especially in border areas.
Officials from poll-going states shared updates on their preparations, including challenges related to security and expenditure monitoring. Particular attention was given to sensitive constituencies and districts located along inter-state borders. The Commission directed authorities to seal vulnerable borders and increase vigilance to prevent any unlawful activities that could influence voters.
Neighbouring states were also asked to fully cooperate and support poll-bound regions in maintaining a secure and fair election environment. The emphasis remained on ensuring elections that are free from violence, intimidation, and inducements.
Several central agencies, including those dealing with financial tracking, narcotics control, and border security, were instructed to intensify surveillance. Enhanced checks at inter-state borders and checkpoints have been planned to curb the movement of illegal cash, liquor, arms, and narcotics.
The Commission also held a meeting with a multi-departmental committee on election intelligence to strengthen real-time information sharing and quick action.
With these coordinated efforts, the ECI aims to ensure that voters can participate in the democratic process without fear or undue influence, reinforcing trust in the electoral system.