Elections - Handbook for Polling Agent

Table of Contents(toc) CHAPTER-1: INTRODUCTION 1. Introduction 1.1 As it is not possible for a candidate to be physically present at every polling station on the day of poll in an assembly or a parliamentary constituency, the law allows him to appoint Polling Agents to act as his representative at every polling station to oversee the election process on the day of poll. A democratic election advocates for a poll that is conducted freely and fairly at every single polling station whereby every candidate feels satisfied with the poll process. If the Polling Agents who represent the candidates at the polling stations carry out their duties conscientiously, it will help not only the candidates whom they represent but also the election authorities in the smooth conduct of poll with full cooperation of those agents. 1.2 As per Section 46 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, read with Rule 13 of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, at every election, each candidate or his election agent…