EC must closely monitor political parties to protect poll environment: Jasmine Tuli
Long scrutiny and extended campaign period reflect thoughtful planning for the 12 February polls, she says
Electoral Reform Commission member and former additional secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat, Jasmine Tuli, has said the Election Commission now carries a major responsibility to closely monitor the behaviour of political parties to ensure none of them disrupts the peaceful environment required for the election.
Speaking to The Business Standard, she said, "For a long time, many of us wondered whether the election would actually be held. Now we are reassured, as the date – 12 February 2026 – has been set. The schedule has also been announced very clearly by the commission."
She said the scrutiny period has been kept relatively long this time, which was also a recommendation of the reform commission, so that candidates have sufficient time to properly verify affidavits and documents.
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"Extending the time for scrutiny is indeed a positive step," she added.
"After that comes the appeal stage, withdrawal of candidacy, and then a reasonable period for campaigning. Since symbols are allotted after withdrawal, the commission has extended the campaign period keeping that in mind," she said.
Jasmine Tuli said another crucial aspect is that, as the national election and the referendum will be held on the same day, a huge number of ballot papers will have to be printed.
"Nearly 25 crore ballot papers will be needed. That requires time, which is why time management was very important. I believe the commission has announced the schedule keeping this in mind, and taken a very well-considered decision," she said.
Challenges and priorities
She said the commission must now focus primarily on monitoring political parties to ensure none of their actions disrupt the electoral environment.
"Political parties should place their trust in voters. It is only natural that victory or defeat will be determined by the people's votes," she said.
Vote counting
She noted that this election poses an additional challenge because voters will cast two ballots – one for the referendum and one for the national election.
"Managing two ballots in the same ballot box and then counting them quickly and accurately will be a major task," she said.
"Candidates usually expect results immediately after polling ends. The commission should therefore take advance measures to ensure the counting process is as fast and precise as possible. I believe the commission will give special attention to this area," she added.
