Assam’s vibrant assembly elections gained an international spotlight on Thursday when Sri Lankan representatives visited a polling station in Kamrup district. Participating in the ECI’s International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) 2026, the group aimed to gain insights into India’s world-renowned election machinery.
The visit culminated in a symbolic tree-planting ceremony, which the ECI shared on X, hailing it as a step towards green elections. This eco-conscious act underscores the Commission’s innovative approaches to blending environmental responsibility with democratic exercises.
The IEVP kicked off on April 7 in the national capital, with CEC Gyanesh Kumar, ECs SS Sandhu, and Vivek Joshi presiding over the launch at a dedicated institute. Kumar passionately spoke of elections as democracy’s grand celebration, highlighting relentless efforts for transparency and inclusivity.
Encouraging visitors to explore India’s cultural mosaic, he set the tone for an enriching exchange. The initial leg features delegations from 23 nations—totaling 43 members, including diplomatic representatives—touring poll sites in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry.
Hands-on experiences included EVM demos, mock voting simulations, and expert-led discussions on procedural innovations and security protocols. These engagements provided a deep dive into the administrative prowess that powers India’s polls.
Looking ahead, Phase II from April 20 will shift focus to West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. Amid Assam’s high-stakes voting, this programme exemplifies India’s leadership in electoral excellence, inspiring global peers and reinforcing democratic solidarity.
