Lok Sabha election 2024 are scheduled from April 19 to June 1. Election Commission of India implemented the Model Code of Conduct on March 16. Instances of violations of Model Code of Conduct are also being reported. Upon receiving complaints, ECI takes prompt action to investigate the cases. If you witness any violations and wish to report them to the Election Commission, you can do so through the cVIGIL application. Let’s learn more about it. 

cVIGIL app

cVIGIL app is an Android application, launched by ECI, which is designed to empower ordinary citizens to report violations of the Model Code of Conduct during the election period. This initiative aims to promote active and responsible participation of citizens in ensuring fair elections. 

Filing complaints

Through this application, you can file complaints about violations of MCC during by-elections, assembly elections, or Lok Sabha elections. Citizens can submit photos or videos through the app. The app also automatically captures the location of where the media was recorded. This location data helps flying squad to take immediate actions. 

Downloading the app

cVIGIL app can be installed on any Android smartphone (JellyBean or a higher version), provided it has a camera, reliable internet connection, and GPS access. With this, people can report instances of political misconduct within minutes. The application directly connects the citizens with the district control room, Returning Officers, and field units. Moreover, this eliminates the need for people to visit the RO office to file a complaint. 

Filing a complaint on the application requires following some steps:

•    Take photos or record a 2-minute video of the activity that violates the MCC.
•    Add brief information about the incident, including the location and nature of violation. 
•    Submit the complaint. After successful submission, the complaint will be automatically sent to the control room of the relevant district. 
•    A flying squad will be sent to the location to investigate the reported incident.

Also read: How to register to vote in India if you have recently turned 18?

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