Short Description
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar highlights the success of the recent electoral roll revision at the IICDEM 2026, emphasizing democracy’s strength through flawless elections in India.
Read Time
Approximately 3 minutes and 15 seconds.
Main Article
In a significant showcase during the India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management (IICDEM) 2026, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar celebrated the successful conduct of Bihar’s special intensive revision (SIR) of the electoral roll. With zero appeals registered after the publication of the final electoral roll, this event underscores the importance of maintaining a pure electoral roll to enhance the integrity of democracy. Kumar stressed that having every eligible voter included in the electoral roll is paramount for the legitimacy of upcoming elections. “The conduct of elections becomes a challenging logistical affair,” he noted, highlighting the necessity for compliance with electoral laws to ensure smooth processes.
The IICDEM serves a dual purpose: celebrating democracy while addressing contemporary electoral challenges. Gyanesh Kumar explained to foreign delegates from over 70 nations how the Indian electoral process has evolved into a monumental exercise, boasting over a billion voters and approximately 1.8 to 2 crore people involved in the electoral process at more than a million polling stations. This logistical achievement positions India as a leader in electoral management globally. Election Commissioner SS Sandhu echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the precious trust placed by citizens in electoral management bodies (EMBs) and the collective duty of these organizations to uphold it.
As the conference unfolded, prominent figures such as Kevin Casas-Zamora, Secretary General of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, applauded India’s chairmanship. He highlighted the necessity for India to share strategies that have fostered a legacy of “free and fair elections” against global challenges like political polarization and misinformation. He noted the concerning trend of electoral disputes and emphasized that while some countries have experienced backsliding, the integrity of elections can pave the way for democratic restoration.
The theme of the IICDEM 2026 emphasizes democracy’s role in creating an inclusive and sustainable world. DG IIIDEM Rakesh Verma noted that understanding the multifaceted nature of democracy is essential for meeting the challenges of the 21st century. Moreover, attendees received a preview of the upcoming docu-series, “India Decides,” produced in collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery, showcasing the richness of India’s democratic journey.
Short Summary
In conclusion, Gyanesh Kumar’s insights at the IICDEM 2026 underline the critical role of a robust electoral roll in safeguarding democracy. With zero appeals and flawless elections in Bihar, India showcases its commitment to transparent electoral management amid global challenges. The conference serves as a crucial platform for future discussions on democracy’s evolution and electoral integrity worldwide.
