Chief Election Commissioner Urges Transparent Voting in Kerala Assembly Elections

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has called on voters in Kerala to engage in the upcoming assembly elections with transparency and peace. During a recent event, he highlighted the importance of making these elections a model for the world. Kumar interacted with young voters and led initiatives to promote voter awareness, including distributing EPIC cards to first-time voters. The Election Commission is also implementing new guidelines for EVM ballots, ensuring candidates' photographs are printed in color. As preparations ramp up for the 2026 elections, Kumar's efforts aim to enhance democratic participation across Kerala and other states.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 6, 2026, 15:57 IST

Call for Peaceful Voting in Kerala

On Friday, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar appealed to voters in Kerala to participate in the upcoming assembly elections in a transparent and peaceful manner. He made this request during the audio launch of the 'SVEEP 2026 Gen-Z Anthem' organized by the Ernakulam district administration. Speaking to reporters, Kumar emphasized the importance of making the elections in Kerala a model not just for India but for the world.

Kumar also engaged with young voters and observed various vibrant programs aimed at raising voter awareness. He participated in a voter awareness initiative with young voters and took a stroll on the Goshri Bridge. The Chief Election Commissioner led an oath-taking ceremony for young voters, encouraging greater participation in the democratic process and distributing EPIC cards to first-time voters.

Preparations for Upcoming Elections

Earlier on Thursday, during his visit to Kochi, Gyanesh Kumar had tea with officials he had worked with during his tenure as the district collector. A delegation from the Election Commission, led by Kumar along with Election Commissioners Sukbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, reviewed the preparations for the upcoming Kerala assembly elections in 2026.

In addition to Kerala, elections are also scheduled for 2026 in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, West Bengal, and Assam, among other states and union territories. Under 30 initiatives by the Election Commission, guidelines have been revised to enhance the readability of EVM ballots. For the first time, candidates' photographs will be printed in color on the EVM ballots.

Mandatory Counting of VVPAT Slips

The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced that it is now mandatory to count VVPAT slips in cases where discrepancies arise between Form 17C and EVM data. Additionally, counting will also occur in instances where mock poll data has not been accidentally erased.