ECI introduces ComET
HERALD REPORTER
PANJIM, APRIL 13
For micro management of elections and concurrent tracking and evaluation of issues and mid-course corrections, the Election Commission of India has evolved communication plan for General Elections (ComET) to Lok Sabha 2009.
The objective of the communication plan is to build confidence, minimise the response time and enhance transparency in the system.
This plan was first introduced on pilot basis in the recently held general elections to assembly constituencies in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Based on the success and efficacy of the system the ECI has made it a country-wide application during General Elections to Lok Sabha 2009.
ComET is a search enabled database of polling station level communication contact points for focused tracking on the poll day.
The plan operates through a well structured multi-layer communication teams comprising Assistant Returning Officer (Assembly Segment Level), District Electoral Officer (District Level), Chief Electoral Officer (State Level) and ECI (National Level).
Communication teams will have clear demarcation of geographical area and communication related responsibilities geared to quick crises resolution and grievance monitoring and information flow.
The database will have Booth Level Officers (BLO) for each polling station with mobile telephones.
Besides, it will have contact telephone number and name of the person in the nearest premises to the each polling station.
This Communication Plan enables direct contact from National Control room (ECI) to the Polling Stations across the country.
