EC bans mobiles inside polling booths with an aim to tighten canvassing

To streamline the voting process and bolster electoral integrity, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced fresh guidelines restricting mobile phone use near polling booths and curbing campaign activity on election day. These decisions, rooted in the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, aim to provide a more secure and efficient voting environment.

Acknowledging the pervasive presence of mobile phones across India—spanning urban, semi-urban, and rural regions—the Commission has greenlit a voter-friendly solution: secure mobile deposit zones outside polling stations. The step intends to ease the voting process, particularly for vulnerable groups like senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities (PwDs), who may carry phones for safety or navigation.

According to the new rules, voters will no longer be permitted to carry their mobile phones inside the polling premises. Instead, switched-off phones may be taken up to a 100-meter perimeter surrounding the station. Secure drop facilities—either pigeonhole-style compartments or labelled jute bags—will be available at entrances to store phones temporarily. However, district election authorities and Returning Officers may allow exceptions in areas facing unique local challenges. Importantly, Rule 49M—which mandates complete secrecy of the ballot—remains in full effect.

Additionally, the Commission has clarified norms around campaigning on polling day. Political parties and candidates are now restricted from engaging in any form of canvassing within 100 meters of polling booths. Campaign kiosks offering unofficial voter slips must also be relocated beyond this restricted zone to preserve neutrality and minimize potential voter influence.

These measures have received encouraging responses from political representatives. Yogesh Kadam, Minister of State for the Home Department, expressed support for the Commission’s approach. He stated that the move would contribute to the transparent and fair conduct of elections. Kadam also noted that in previous polls, voters were often seen filming the voting process—a practice deemed inappropriate and potentially risky in high-footfall or sensitive areas. He added that the mobile deposit facilities would not only protect voter privacy but also strengthen public safety protocols.