Key Facts and Data Points
- National Declaration 2026 adopted by ECI and SECs after a 27‑year gap.
- Emphasis on pure electoral rolls – error‑free, updated.
- Objective: Synergize electoral laws & processes for Panchayats, Municipalities (SEC) with Parliament, President, Vice‑President, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and State Legislatures (ECI).
- Annual National Round Table Conference proposed.
- Joint legal‑technical team to submit state/UT‑wise roadmap within 3 months.
- Technological resources to be shared:
- ECINET Portal for electoral roll management.
- Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) infrastructure.
- IIIDEM (India International Institute of Democracy and Electoral Management) for training.
- Publication: “A Confluence of Democracies” documenting IICDEM 2026 and Delhi Declaration 2026.
Background and Context
- ECI is a constitutional body under Article 324; SECs function under Articles 243K and 243ZA.
- Coordination between ECI and SECs has been limited; the last major joint declaration was 27 years ago.
- Uniformity in electoral roll preparation and technology use across levels is essential for credible elections.
Significance for India / Governance / Policy
- Enhances federal coordination, reduces duplication, and ensures consistent electoral standards across the country.
- Pure rolls improve voter confidence, reduce malpractices, and ensure accurate representation.
- Sharing technology optimizes resources and aligns with Digital India and e‑Governance initiatives.
- Capacity building through IIIDEM strengthens the conduct of local body elections.
Related Constitutional / Legal Provisions
- Article 324 – Election Commission of India.
- Article 243K & 243ZA – State Election Commissions.
- Representation of the People Act, 1951 – provisions for electoral rolls.
- Model Code of Conduct – uniform application across elections.