The Chief Election Commissioner, Rajiv Kumar, announced on Saturday the launch of a new mobile application called ‘Know Your Candidate’ (KYC), aimed at enabling voters to access information about electoral candidates’ criminal records ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This initiative underscores the Election Commission’s commitment to transparency and empowering voters with vital information.
Kumar emphasized that voters have the right to be informed about the criminal records, assets, and liabilities of candidates contesting from their constituencies. The KYC app serves as a tool for voters to access such information independently. “The voters can also now check for themselves the assets and liabilities that candidates with criminal antecedents hold. All relevant information in this regard will be made available on this application,” Kumar stated.
The KYC app is available for download on both Android and iOS platforms, ensuring accessibility to a wide range of users. With this app, voters can easily verify the background of candidates before making informed decisions at the ballot box.
Elaborating on the functionality of the KYC app, Kumar explained, “We have come up with a new mobile application that will enable voters to find out if a candidate, who is bidding to represent them in the Lok Sabha, has a criminal background. The application is called ‘Know Your Candidate’ or ‘KYC’.” This initiative aligns with the Election Commission’s efforts to promote transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Candidates with criminal records are required to disclose this information publicly through newspapers and television advertisements three times. Additionally, political parties nominating such candidates are obligated to justify their selection, providing clarity on the basis for choosing individuals with tainted backgrounds over other candidates.
The launch of the KYC app signifies a significant step towards enhancing electoral transparency and empowering voters to make informed choices. By providing access to crucial information about candidates, the app promotes accountability and integrity in the electoral process.
In addition to the Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission also announced the schedule for assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. Assembly polls in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled for May 13, while Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim will vote in a single phase on April 19. Furthermore, by-elections for 26 assembly seats will be conducted simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls.
The comprehensive coverage of elections through the KYC app reflects the Election Commission’s commitment to upholding the democratic values of transparency, accountability, and fair representation. By leveraging technology to empower voters, the Commission aims to strengthen the democratic process and ensure the integrity of elections.
The Know Your Candidate app serves as a valuable tool for voters, enabling them to exercise their democratic rights responsibly by making informed decisions. As citizens engage with the electoral process, they play an active role in shaping the future of their nation and upholding democratic principles. Through initiatives like the KYC app, the Election Commission continues to uphold the sanctity of elections and promote democratic participation at all levels of governance.
