May 05, Colombo (LNW): The Indian High Commission has announced the commencement of the International Election Visitor Programme (IEVP) organised by the Election Commission of India amidst the ongoing Lok Sabha 2024 elections, scheduled from May 4 to May 9, 2024.
A 10-member delegation from Sri Lanka will partake in the programme, a statement from the Indian High Commission disclosed.
This delegation comprises two representatives from the Election Commission of Sri Lanka and eight from PCOI (Presidential Commission of Inquiry to Make Recommendations for Election Law Reforms).
The IEVP serves as a vital platform for international election management bodies (EMBs) and organisations involved in the electoral field to gain insights into the robustness of India’s electoral system and to learn about the best practices adopted in the world’s largest democracy.
Previously, the Election Commission of India organised similar programmes during the Lok Sabha Elections in 2014 and 2019, aimed at familiarising foreign EMBs and international organisations with India’s electoral processes.
The programme encompasses briefing sessions covering various topics such as an overview of elections in India, EVMs & VVPAT, IT initiatives, and media and social media outreach.
Furthermore, participants will have the opportunity to travel to different states in groups to observe election procedures and witness polling in various stations.
This year, the Election Commission of India has extended invitations to 55 EMBs and organisations to participate in the IEVP 2024.
The programme offers a unique opportunity for participants to observe and interact with various stakeholders involved in the electoral process, thereby fostering greater understanding and collaboration in the realm of election management.
Through initiatives like the IEVP, both countries aim to promote transparency, integrity, and inclusivity in their respective electoral processes, contributing to the advancement of democratic principles and practices regionally and globally.
