- Form 17 C, also known as the "Polling Station Wise Result Sheet," is a document prepared by the presiding officer at each polling booth. It contains detailed information including the absolute number of votes polled at the booth, the total number of registered electors, and other pertinent details. This form is crucial for ensuring transparency in the electoral process.
2. Why is Form 17 C significant?
- Form 17 C is significant because it provides the absolute voter turnout data at the booth level, which is a critical measure of transparency. This data helps candidates and their agents verify the accuracy of the voting process and the count of votes cast.
3. Who receives Form 17 C?
- Form 17 C is provided to the polling agents of each candidate present at the booth immediately after the voting ends. This allows the candidates to have an accurate and immediate record of voter turnout in absolute numbers.
4. Why do some groups want Form 17 C to be made public?
- Opposition parties and civil society groups argue that making Form 17 C publicly available online would increase transparency and trust in the electoral process. They believe it would help verify the reported voter turnout and address any discrepancies between reported numbers and actual counts.
5. What are the concerns with not publicly disclosing Form 17 C?
- The main concern is that withholding the absolute number of votes polled from public disclosure can lead to suspicions of data tampering or inaccuracies in voter turnout reporting. This lack of transparency might diminish public trust in the electoral outcomes.
6. What challenges exist for candidates in utilizing Form 17 C?
- One significant challenge is the logistical and financial burden of deploying polling agents in every booth, especially for smaller parties or independent candidates. Without agents at every booth, these candidates may not receive the Form 17 C, putting them at a disadvantage in monitoring and verifying the voting process.
7. What is the current legal stance on public access to Form 17 C?
- Currently, the Election Commission does not provide public access to Form 17 C, stating that it is meant only for candidates and their agents. The issue of public access to these forms is subject to ongoing legal debates and demands for reform.
8. What developments are expected regarding the public availability of Form 17 C?
- The matter has reached the judiciary, with the Supreme Court asking the Election Commission to clarify why Form 17 C cannot be made publicly available online. The decision pending in court could potentially change the practices surrounding the accessibility of this document.
These FAQs aim to clarify the ongoing debate and the importance of Form 17 C in ensuring electoral transparency and fairness.
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