KATHMANDU, April 23: The Election Commission (EC) has decided to tighten the security system in the by-elections to be held on 27th April.

According to Ram Datta Pandey, assistant spokesperson for the Commission, the commission's meeting on Monday decided to tighten the security arrangements in the by-elections based on the recommendations of the High Level Election Security Committee meeting.

On the day of the by-election, voters are expected to adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Election (Crimes and Punishments) Act, 2073. This Act stipulates several key regulations to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process. According to Section 4, individuals should refrain from obstructing election-related materials. Section 5 prohibits the misuse of ballot papers, while Section 6, Paragraph 3, explicitly states that ballot papers should not be distributed or acquired illegally. Additionally, Section 7 emphasizes that only eligible voters should participate in the voting process. Voters are also reminded in Section 8 not to cast their votes multiple times. Public display of voting signs is restricted under Section 9, and Section 10 mandates respect for the voting procedure. Furthermore, Section 11 prohibits the dropping or retention of any items other than ballot papers during voting. Authorities have been directed under Section 12 to take immediate action against any violations of these rules. Lastly, Section 13 warns against defacing or destroying voted ballot papers and obstructing the voting process. It is crucial for voters to comply with these regulations to ensure a smooth and impartial by-election.

Assistant Spokesperson Pandey said that a written instruction will be sent through the Ministry of Home Affairs to the chief electoral officers, polling officers, and assistant polling officers. Additionally, the District Security Committee will provide directives to the security personnel assigned to polling stations and mobile teams. “The aim is to ensure that re-voting is prevented at any polling station during the by-election,” he said.

 
• EC