ECI forms task force to review heatwave impact during Lok Sabha polls

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday constituted a task force to review the impact of the heatwave and humidity on each phase of the Lok Sabha elections 2024 and take mitigatory action. The ECI took the decision against the backdrop of severe heatwave conditions in several parts of the country, especially the eastern region. According to the decision, the task force will carry out the review five days before each remaining phase of polling, media reports said quoting ECI sources. The task force will have officials from the poll panel, IMD, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, media quoted the Election Commission sources as saying. The poll body also decided to hold a separate review meeting with state Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) to make adequate arrangements to make sure the well-being and comfort of voters. The ECI also asked the ministry of health affairs to issue necessary instructions to health authorities in states to prepare for and extend assistance in case of heatwave conditions affecting election operations. The Lok Sabha elections began last Friday and will be held in total seven phases. After the second leg, the voting will be held on May 7, 13, 20, 25, and June 1. The counting of votes for all 543 constituencies will take place on June 4, according to poll schedule. Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha