MONDAY, MAY 20, 2024
Team Herald
PANJIM: Stating that Bhutan is a relatively new democracy with only about 15-16 years of experience in modern elections, Chief Election Commissioner of the Election Commission of Bhutan Sonam Topgay said that he had come to Goa on the invitation by Election Commission of India which provided him the opportunity to learn from the vast experience and expertise of election exercise in the largest democratic country.
He was speaking during the briefing in Panjim on Wednesday.
Topgay further said, “In comparison with India, Bhutan has few years’ history of democracy. We have to learn a lot from the largest democratic country with diversity like India.”
Speaking about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), Topgay mentioned that Bhutan also uses similar technology and informed about the signing of an MoU between the Election Commission of India (ECI) and Bhutanese Election Management Bodies to facilitate collaboration.
He emphasised the importance of randomisation for transparency in the electoral process in India and acknowledged the use of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT), noting its role in boosting the confidence of Indian voters.
The Chief Commissioner expressed interest in exploring the use of VVPAT machines in Bhutan to empower voters to verify their votes.
He was impressed by the innovative decor observed at different polling stations, such as the unique pink and green themes and model polling stations, recognising their potential to enhance voter turnout.
Congratulating the Election Commission of India, Topgay lauded the endeavour of entire election team for achieving a milestone of 75 per cent with peaceful and smooth process.
Rather than offering suggestions, Topgay expressed eagerness to learn and commended the peaceful conduct of the election.
He congratulated the Goa poll authorities especially the Chief Electoral Officer and his team and all those involved in ensuring the success of the election for achieving a milestone of 75 per cent.
He shared his fruitful experience of three-day visit wherein he visited polling booths in the State.
A representative from Bhutan's media official reflecting on his experience, he highlighted the thematic setup of polling stations, including those catering to Divyang (PwDs) individuals and the vibrant green and pink themes, as valuable lessons to take back home.
He commended Goa's initiative to plant saplings which proves the State's commitment to becoming eco-friendly. Furthermore, he appreciated the efforts of the Election Officials which catered to the needs of every voter by providing refreshing drinks.
Assistant Chief Electoral Officer Sapna Naik Bandodkar welcomed, Nodal Officer Observer Brijesh Manerkar briefed about the details of election procedure in Goa while Nodal Officer Sangeeta Naik proposed a vote of thanks.
