New Delhi: Journalist associations have urged the Chief Election Commissioner to conduct press conferences following each phase of voting and release comprehensive polling data promptly. They specifically requested the disclosure of absolute vote counts and voting percentages for each phase by the following day.
The Press Club of India, Press Association, Indian Women Press Corp, Delhi Union of Journalists, and Foreign Correspondent Club have jointly conveyed their disappointment to the Election Commission (EC) for failing to organize any press conferences following the conclusion of voting in three phases nationwide.
The letter stated that it was normal practice for Election Commission of India to hold a press conference after voting in each phase till 2019, the last general election. It is the right of every citizen to know what happened on the voting from the ECI, said the letter.
The letter emphasized that press conferences were essential for journalists to clarify any doubts or confusion, enabling them to produce accurate reports for their readers. It highlighted that journalists played a crucial role in keeping citizens well-informed and updated during elections. Additionally, the letter suggested that Election Commissioners could directly address voters through electronic media platforms during these press conferences.
Expressing shock and surprise, the letter noted the Election Commission’s failure to disclose the “absolute number of votes polled” in the last three phases, contrary to past practices. This omission has raised concerns about the fairness of the election process.
The letter urged the Election Commission to conduct press conferences after each phase of voting and release comprehensive polling data, including absolute vote counts and final voting percentages, by the following day. Such transparency is crucial for maintaining voters’ confidence in the electoral system, the letter stated.
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