Citizens Empower Clean Elections Through cVIGIL App: Over 4.24 Lakh Complaints Received, 99.9% Cases Resolved

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 18th May. In a significant development for electoral integrity, citizens have joined forces with the Election Commission of India (ECI) to combat electoral malpractices using the cVIGIL app. Since the announcement of the General Elections 2024, the app has emerged as a potent tool, with over 4.24 lakh complaints received as of May 15, 2024. Impressively, 99.9% of these complaints have been promptly addressed, with only 409 cases remaining under process.

Citizens have leveraged the cVIGIL app to report various violations, including the misuse of loudspeakers, campaigning during banned periods, unauthorized placement of banners or posters, exceeding permitted vehicle deployment, property defacement, and instances of intimidation or display of firearms to influence voters.

The cVIGIL app facilitates swift reporting by connecting vigilant citizens directly with the District Control Room, Returning Officer, and Flying Squads Teams. By enabling users to capture audio, photos, or videos in real-time, the app ensures timely responses to complaints, with a stringent “100-minute” countdown for resolution, as promised by the ECI.

One of the key features contributing to the app’s effectiveness is its geo-tagging capability, automatically activated when users capture images through the app. This feature allows flying squads to pinpoint the precise location of reported violations, enhancing the efficiency of response efforts. Moreover, captured images serve as valuable evidence in legal proceedings.

The cVIGIL app also prioritizes user anonymity to encourage reporting while implementing safeguards against misuse, such as geographical and time restrictions, as well as mechanisms to filter out duplicate or frivolous complaints.

Described as a vital component of the ECI’s technological arsenal, the cVIGIL app underscores the Commission’s commitment to leveraging technology to empower voters and ensure the integrity of electoral processes.