NEW DELHI, May 23: As part of its continued efforts to enhance voter convenience and streamline poll day procedures, the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Friday issued two new directives: one to provide mobile phone deposit facilities outside polling stations and another to revise norms on political canvassing near voting areas.

The move comes in response to the growing use of mobile phones in both urban and rural regions and the challenges they pose for voters—particularly senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities (PwDs)—on election day. Acknowledging these concerns, the ECI announced that mobile phones will now be allowed within a 100-meter radius of polling stations only if switched off, and voters must deposit them before entering the premises.

According to an official statement, simple pigeonhole boxes or jute bags will be placed near the entrance of polling stations for mobile phone collection. However, returning officers have the discretion to exempt certain polling stations from this rule in light of adverse local conditions.

The ECI reaffirmed that Rule 49M of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, which mandates the secrecy of voting inside polling stations, will continue to be strictly enforced.

In a parallel initiative aimed at minimizing voter influence and maintaining order, the ECI has also rationalised canvassing norms. Under the new rule, political activity including distribution of unofficial voter identity slips by candidate booths will be strictly prohibited within a 100-meter radius of polling stations. These booths can now only operate beyond that boundary.

The updated guidelines fall in line with provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, further emphasizing the ECI’s commitment to ensuring free, fair, and voter-friendly elections.