Following the announcement of the timetable for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections by the Election Commission of India (ECI), the entire apparatus of the state, led by the Chief Electoral Officer, has initiated the electoral process.
The Election Commission necessitates a substantial workforce to facilitate the elections, drawing from various governmental sectors, educational institutions, and public enterprises such as nationalized financial institutions and insurance corporations.
The personnel involved in the polling teams encompass a diverse array of roles including Presiding Officers, Polling Officers, Sector and Zonal Officers, Micro-Observers, Assistant Expenditure Observers, drivers, conductors, and vehicle cleaners. Additionally, police personnel tasked with maintaining security and order, along with Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, District Election Officers, and their respective staff, contribute to the electoral process across all states and union territories.
Certain individuals assigned to election duty may seek exemptions, though opportunities for absence are limited. Non-attendance may incur penalties from the Commission.
As outlined in a notification from the Department of Personnel and Training, the Election Commission holds jurisdiction over officers, staff, and police deployed for election duties, including the authority to suspend individuals for insubordination or neglect of duty, and to recommend disciplinary measures to the competent authority.
Exemptions from election duty are granted under specific circumstances, subject to verification by higher authorities. Only the District Election Officer (DEO) has the authority to approve exemptions or release individuals from their duties.
In most districts, the District Collector assumes the role of DEO, responsible for overseeing electoral activities within the district under the supervision of the Chief Electoral Officer.
According to Deputy Election Officer Shashikant Mangrule of Nashik district, certain criteria allow for the cancellation of election duty for government employees or those from state-sponsored entities already assigned to duties. However, such cancellations can only be authorized by District Collector Jalaj Sharma, who also serves as the DEO for Nashik district.
Dual allocation of duties presents one such criterion, where an individual assigned duties at two separate locations may request cancellation at one location due to logistical challenges in fulfilling both obligations.
Political affiliation constitutes another criterion, whereby individuals associated with a specific political party may seek exemption based on their allegiance.
Individuals with pre-existing overseas travel plans coinciding with the Lok Sabha election dates may request exemption provided they present documented evidence of their travel arrangements.
Furthermore, individuals suffering from acute heart conditions or rare diseases affecting their ability to function may also be eligible for exemption upon submission of relevant medical certificates.
The training of polling personnel has commenced in preparation for the upcoming elections, with master trainers identified to instruct personnel on their respective roles for polling day.
Polling will be conducted in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, with the counting of votes scheduled for June 4.