May 25th 2024.
Many voters in Odisha are expressing their frustration over a recent decision to ban the use of mobile phones inside polling booths during elections. The Chief Electoral Officer's office has also extended this ban to smartwatches.
Those who were planning to bring their phones with them were caught off guard, as there was no prior announcement or information about this restriction. They were disappointed to find out that they would not be able to have their phones with them while casting their votes.
Furthermore, voters also noted that there were no proper arrangements made for the safe storage of their phones near the polling booths. As a result, many of them had to return home without being able to exercise their right to vote. The security personnel stationed at the booths were strictly enforcing the ban and not allowing anyone to enter with a mobile phone.
This issue has arisen on the day when six Lok Sabha and 42 Assembly seats across 10 districts are up for voting in the third phase of elections in the state. It has caused inconvenience and disappointment among many voters.
In response to the backlash, the CEO's office has issued a statement clarifying that only the Presiding Officer of the polling booth is allowed to have a mobile phone, while voters and polling agents are not permitted to bring their phones inside. However, this clarification has come a little too late for those who have already been turned away from the polling booths. The situation remains tense and uncertain as the voting process continues.
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