Daijiworld Media Network - Kannur
Kannur, Apr 5: In a decisive move to strengthen the credibility of the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections, authorities in Kannur district have introduced an extensive surveillance network to monitor polling activities. Every polling station in the district will be equipped with cameras, ensuring complete oversight both inside booths and at entry points.
The district, which has 2,177 polling stations, is set to implement full-scale webcasting, allowing election officials to observe proceedings in real time. This initiative is designed to closely track voter movement and maintain order throughout polling day. Officials confirmed that installation work is progressing swiftly and will be completed well before voting begins.
The surveillance system is aimed at boosting transparency, curbing electoral malpractices, and ensuring strict compliance with election regulations at every stage. To support this, a robust two-level monitoring structure has been established. A central control room at the Kannur Collectorate will oversee live feeds from across the district, while additional control rooms in each Assembly constituency will function under Returning Officers.
Election Commission observers will also routinely inspect these constituency-level monitoring centres to verify that all systems are functioning properly and guidelines are being followed.
To ensure smooth operations, personnel have undergone specialized training to handle the webcasting infrastructure. Dedicated technical staff will be stationed at each polling booth to manage equipment and quickly resolve any issues. All polling activities will be recorded and securely stored, with footage preserved on hard drives and later submitted to the State Chief Electoral Officer for official review and documentation.
Authorities believe that these enhanced measures will significantly reinforce public trust in the electoral process, ensuring a smooth and transparent voting experience.
Given Kannur’s history of politically sensitive incidents involving multiple parties, the Election Commission has taken extra precautions by implementing district-wide surveillance, aiming to maintain peace and uphold the integrity of the votes.