ECI Rules on Mobile Phones & Photography inside Polling Stations
- Context: The Election Commission of India has issued strict guidelines prohibiting the use of digital devices inside polling stations.
Ban on devices inside booths
- Mobile phones, cameras, smartwatches, and other electronic devices are not allowed inside polling stations
Violation & Punishment
- Taking photos, selfies, or videos inside polling booths can lead to: Up to 3 months imprisonment, or Fine, or both
- Devices used in violation may be confiscated
Current Facts- TTRO – Tertiary Treatment Reverse Osmosis
- Tamil Nadu is home to six particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) — Toda, Kota, Kurumbas, Irular, Paniyan, and Kattunayakan.
- Anaithu Grama Anna Marumalarchi Thittam (AGAMT), launched in 2006 by then Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, was aimed at developing infrastructure in rural panchayats.
Legal Provision- Photographing voting on EVM is a serious offence under Section 128 of the Representation of the People Act 1951 (maintaining vote secrecy)
Additional Powers
- The Election Commission may also disqualify offenders, restricting future voting rights
Purpose of Restrictions
- To ensure secrecy and integrity of voting process
- To maintain the sanctity of elections
Permitted Activity
- Voters may take selfies with inked fingers only after exiting the polling station
