Guwahati, April 11: International delegates from 22 countries have commended the scale, planning, and high voter participation in India’s electoral process, describing it as a “true festival of democracy” during their visit under the Election Commission of India’s International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) 2026.
A total of 38 delegates observed the conduct of Legislative Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, gaining firsthand insight into the complexity and efficiency of managing one of the world’s largest democratic exercises. Their visit on April 8 and 9 began at dispatch and distribution centres, where they witnessed the systematic movement of polling personnel and election materials under structured logistics and standard procedures.
The visiting teams interacted with Chief Electoral Officers and senior police officials to understand election management and security arrangements. They also toured CCTV control rooms set up for 100 per cent webcasting of polling stations, which they described as a key element ensuring transparency in the process.
On polling day, the delegates observed mock polls before visiting polling stations across regions including Kamrup Metro and Kamrup Rural in Assam, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, and Puducherry. They praised the smooth conduct of voting and the orderly participation of citizens.
Highlighting the inclusive nature of the elections, the delegates appreciated facilities such as ramps, wheelchairs, volunteers, crèches, and polling stations managed by women and persons with disabilities. They described these measures as being of the highest standard in ensuring accessibility and participation.
The teams also visited district-level media monitoring centres and lauded the continuous surveillance enabled through webcasting. In addition, they took part in plantation drives at polling stations, recognising efforts to incorporate environmentally sustainable practices into the electoral process.
In Puducherry, the delegates noted enhanced vigilance measures, including flying squads, drone-based monitoring, and innovative features such as a welcoming robot. In Kerala, they visited a Gen Z-themed polling booth and appreciated the enthusiasm of first-time voters, while in Assam’s Kamrup (Rural), they also experienced health check-up facilities provided at polling stations.
The delegates expressed admiration for the use of Electronic Voting Machines, stating that several aspects of India’s election management could serve as models for other countries. The Election Commission said the seamless polling process and high turnout left a lasting impression on the visitors, who praised the country’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and efficient electoral practices.
The IEVP is a flagship initiative of the Commission aimed at strengthening international cooperation and showcasing India’s electoral system and best practices on a global platform.
