Panjim:  The Election Commission of India’s (ECI) Android-based citizens app, which can be used secretly to send geo-tagged videos, photos and other violations during the model code conduct, would be launched in Goa for the upcoming by-elections in Mandrem and Shiroda Assembly constituencies and for the general elections for Lok Sabha. 

The unique app called ‘cVIGIL’,, which stands for ‘citizens vigil’, was launched by ECI during the State Assembly elections held in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, last year.  

The app made available on Google Play Store, will work only during the time the model code of conduct is in place. “The app was a success during the State elections and ECI is hopeful of its success for the Parliamentary polls. We intend to introduce it even during the by-elections,” Chief Electoral office (CEO) sources said. 

Sources said that the app based complaints will help us to understand whether they are authentic or to mislead the poll officers with vested interest. 

The by-elections for the two constituencies are due next month, while the Lok Sabha polls in April. There is no clarity on whether, by-polls and Parliamentary elections would be held together or one after the other.