New Delhi, 25 February (H.S.) The 'National Declaration 2026' was unanimously adopted at the National Roundtable Conference organized by the Election Commission of India (ECI) and State Election Commissioners (SECs) on Tuesday. Additionally, a resolution was passed to hold such meetings annually henceforth.

According to the Election Commission, this conference—held after a 27-year gap—saw participation from State Election Commissioners of 30 states. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar chaired the proceedings, with Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi also present.The conference featured in-depth discussions on enhancing the transparency and efficacy of electoral processes.

Consensus was reached on sharing ECI facilities like ECI-Net, EVMs, voter list management, and training with states. State Election Commissioners emphasized that a pure and updated voter list forms the bedrock of democracy, while transparent electoral processes strengthen democratic institutions.

The National Declaration 2026 also resolved to harmonize laws governing panchayat and municipal elections with provisions for Parliament and Assembly polls, ensuring uniformity in the electoral process.The Election Commission urged states to actively participate in its international programs. It was decided to form a joint team of legal and technical officers to review suggestions received from states. This team will prepare state-wise action plans within three months and submit them to the Commission.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar