Election Commission Urged to Curb Substance Abuse During Elections

The Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti has submitted a memorandum to the State Election Commission urging action to curb substance abuse during elections.

The committee highlighted the vulnerability of youth, particularly to substance abuse, during election periods, with women bearing the brunt of its effects.

They noted a concerning trend where young individuals, enticed by narcotics, become new targets during elections.

In a meeting held in Shimla, they submitted Memorandum to Chief Election Commissioner Manish Garg.

The committee emphasized its commitment to democratic values and constitutional processes, highlighting elections as a crucial component.

However, they raised alarm over the distribution of various inducements such as alcohol and money by political parties and candidates to secure votes, undermining the integrity of free and fair elections.

Sumitra Chandel expressed concern that substance and monetary temptations deprive citizens of their fundamental rights to free and fair elections. Such unethical behavior not only distorts the electoral process but also erodes public trust in democratic institutions.

The committee calls for stringent measures to prevent illegal distribution and consumption of drugs and alcohol during the election period, increased vigilance against coercion, bribery, and electoral fraud at polling centers, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, and stakeholders to raise awareness about the negative consequences of participating in illicit activities during elections.

Kapil Sharma, the state treasurer of the Youth Assembly, emphasized the need for technological and innovative solutions to monitor and track any suspicious activities compromising the integrity of the electoral process.

By actively addressing these challenges, not only will democratic principles be upheld, but also the trust of Himachal Pradesh's citizens in the electoral system will be restored.

Dr. Ravi Bhushan from Health committee expressed confidence that   the 2024 Lok Sabha elections will be conducted with the highest standards of transparency, impartiality, and integrity.

Navin Sharma reiterated the organization's readiness to support your efforts in every possible way.

We hope for a fair and democratic electoral process under your leadership, said Satyawan Pundir, Secretary HPGVS.