EC asks mobile operators to identify communication shadow zone

Election Commission has asked mobile operators to search and identify "shadow zones" of communication, particularly in Jangalmahal and remote rural areas, to improve connectivity for smooth conduct of Lok Sabha election.
The EC thinks that there is a number of shadow zones where communication through mobiles phones and exchange of SMS can be difficult while polling, according to Joint Chief Electoral Officer (Expenditure) Amit Roy Chowdhury.
"We have discussed the issue in detail and asked mobile operators to identify loopholes and explore ways how to plug it immediately for the convenience of the Commission," Roy Chowdhury said.
He further said that the EC was also exploring the possibility of using SAT (satellite) phones particularly in Jangalmahal and other inaccessible areas.

The EC is also keeping in place its second line of communication through sector officers, if presiding officers can't be contacted over phones, he added.
With massive haul of smuggled gold being recovered recently, the EC has directed the concerned departments to intensify border vigil to prevent smuggling and infiltration from Bangladesh, Roy Chowdhury said.

Meanwhile, state Chief Electoral Officer Sunil Gupta and other officials today held a video conference with district magistrates to discuss issues relating to deployment and welfare of over four lakh polling personnel for over 70,000 polling booths.
Assistant Chief Electoral Officer Amitjyoti Bhattacharya said that the polling personnel this time would be paid their remuneration for poll duties through their bank accounts.

"Self Help Groups have been asked to arrange for their food, while the PHE department would arrange for drinking water," he said.
Bhattacharya said that the EC would also take measures against Naxalite attack keeping the recent attack in Chhattisgarh in mind.
"The Commission would also use Braille software to benefit blind voters during the ensuing election," he said.