Vijayawada: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken a significant step ahead of the upcoming elections in Andhra Pradesh by excluding volunteers from election-related duties. Mukesh Kumar Meena, the State Chief Electoral Officer, affirmed the decision, citing the imperative to uphold election protocols.
This directive encompasses various electoral operations, including the release of Andhra Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Test (APTET) results and the scheduling of Andhra Pradesh Teacher Recruitment Test (APTRT) exams, aligning with the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The ECI’s new guidelines also prohibit volunteers from distributing scheme and pension cash, mandating the return of government-provided electronic devices.
Meena emphasized the importance of alternative methods, involving government employees, to ensure the continuity of essential services while maintaining electoral integrity. Additionally, the ECI has postponed the release of APTET results and the scheduling of APTRT exams until the conclusion of the electoral period, underscoring its commitment to fair elections.
Cooperation among stakeholders, including government agencies and volunteers, remains crucial for upholding democratic principles in Andhra Pradesh’s electoral process.
