As India’s biggest festival of democracy unfolds, the Election Commission is diligently ensuring that the elections are conducted in a fair and secure manner. Wherever I go, I see the rigorous measures put in place by the Election Commission to uphold the model code of conduct. These efforts are commendable, yet during my travels across various locations for family commitments, I have noticed a significant issue that demands attention.

Overzealous Barricading

In areas where elections are scheduled, there is a notable presence of barricades and checkpoints. While these security measures are essential to prevent illegal activities, there is a glaring flaw in their implementation. Almost all barricades are staffed exclusively by male police officers or male election commission employees. This becomes particularly problematic when these men are tasked with inspecting the belongings of female travelers.

Invasion of Privacy and Dignity

It is distressing to witness male officers asking women to open their bags for inspection. This practice not only invades the privacy of women but also undermines their dignity. At one point, I was so frustrated that I confronted an officer, asking if he intended to inspect women’s undergarments, which only underscored the absurdity and insensitivity of the situation. Such actions, carried out in the name of security, are unacceptable and raise serious concerns about the Election Commission’s operational protocols.

Female Representation in Security Checks

To rectify this issue, it is imperative that the Election Commission deploys female police officers and election personnel at these checkpoints. This would ensure that women’s belongings are inspected with the sensitivity and respect they deserve. If immediate deployment of female personnel is not feasible, the Election Commission could introduce a system where travel passes are issued to families traveling with women. Vehicles with these passes would be checked under the supervision of female officers at the destination.

Protecting Women’s Dignity

As a concerned citizen, I find the current practice of male officers inspecting women’s luggage, especially during late evenings and early mornings, to be a blatant disregard for women’s dignity. It is a serious issue that tarnishes the otherwise commendable efforts of the Election Commission. I urge the Election Commission to take immediate and serious action to address this problem, ensuring that the dignity of women is preserved during elections.

My View: The essence of a fair and democratic election lies not only in its execution but also in respecting the rights and dignity of all citizens. By implementing gender-sensitive practices at road security checkpoints, the Election Commission can further strengthen its commitment to a fair, secure, and respectful election process. It is my hope that the Commission will heed this call for change, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of gender, is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve during this crucial period.

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