EC Reviews All 23 Punjab Districts; EVM Checks From Nov 12ਚੋਣ ਕਮਿਸ਼ਨ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਦੇ 23 ਜ਼ਿਲ੍ਹਿਆਂ ਦੀ ਸਮੀਖਿਆ, 12 ਨਵੰਬਰ ਤੋਂ ਈਵੀਐੱਮ ਜਾਂਚ

A delegation of the Election Commission of India has reviewed poll preparedness in all 23 districts of Punjab, and first level checking of electronic voting machines will begin in the districts on 12 November. The review comes with the 2027 assembly elections about four months away and political parties already campaigning.

Who reviewed Punjab's poll readiness?

According to ANI, the delegation included Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Pawan Kumar Sharma, Deputy Election Commissioner Bhanu Prakash Yeturu, Director General (IT) Seema Khanna and Director General (Media) Ashish Goyal. They met all 23 District Election Officers, Commissioners of Police and Senior Superintendents of Police, who gave presentations on readiness in their districts.

What did the officials stress?

The visiting officials emphasised strict compliance with Commission guidelines, transparency in administrative processes, timely pre-poll work and strong enforcement measures across the state. Punjab's Chief Electoral Officer, Anindita Mitra, assured the delegation that arrangements would be completed on time for free, fair and inclusive polls.

What are the EVM checks?

The Tribune reported that the meeting followed a workshop on first level checking of EVMs and VVPAT units, held to train officials in the technical and administrative steps. Mitra said the checking process in the districts would start on 12 November.

What else is the Commission doing in Punjab?

Earlier this week the Commission asked Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Goa, Manipur and Uttarakhand to transfer officers linked to election work who are posted in their home districts or have served long in one place. Jugti has also reported the opposition demand for the Model Code of Conduct to apply early; the code normally begins only when the poll schedule is announced.

When will first level checking of EVMs begin in Punjab?

On 12 November in the districts, according to Chief Electoral Officer Anindita Mitra as reported by The Tribune.

How many districts did the Election Commission team review?

All 23 districts, through presentations by district election officers and police chiefs, according to ANI.