Global delegates hail Assam Assembly polls as ‘true festival of democracy’

Guwahati, Apr 11: Assam’s Assembly elections have drawn global attention, with international delegates hailing the scale, inclusivity and seamless conduct of polling as a “true festival of democracy.”

Under the Election Commission of India’s IEVP 2026, a 38-member delegation from 22 countries observed the polls, including visits to Assam where delegates witnessed the process on the ground.

During their visit to Kamrup (Metro) and Kamrup (Rural), 12 international delegates from 7 countries (Angola, Benin, Croatia, Egypt, Mexico, Portugal, Sri Lanka) reviewed key aspects of poll management, including dispatch and distribution centres, movement of polling personnel and election materials, and adherence to established protocols.

They also interacted with Chief Electoral Officers and police officials to assess security arrangements.

On polling day, the delegates witnessed mock polls before visiting polling stations to observe the voting process.

They lauded the inclusive arrangements at polling booths, including ramps, wheelchairs, volunteers and crèche facilities, as well as polling stations managed by women and persons with disabilities.

“Inclusivity of highest order,” remarked Fahima Araphat Abdallah from Kenya, while Paulus Shigwedha of Namibia said, “We are very impressed with how the polling stations have been organised, the facilities have been prepared very well.”

In Kamrup (Rural), delegates also took note of voter-centric initiatives such as health check-up facilities at polling stations, underscoring the focus on accessibility and welfare.

They further visited media monitoring centres, while also participating in plantation drives at polling stations, reflecting eco-friendly practices integrated into the election process.

Delegates also appreciated the use of technology and monitoring mechanisms, including 100% webcasting of polling stations and CCTV control rooms, calling them a “strong pillar of transparency.”

The scale and enthusiasm of the electoral process left a strong impression on the visiting teams. “Indian voting… this is a true festival of democracy for the whole world… what is overwhelming for me is enthusiasm of people to vote,” said Branimir Farkas from Croatia.

Echoing similar sentiments, Uuc-Kib Espadas Ancona from Mexico noted, “The process of election in India is certainly a place to learn,” while Abubakarr Mahmoud Koroma of Sierra Leone highlighted the use of EVMs, describing the exercise as “like a festival.”

Expressing gratitude to the Election Commission of India, the delegates commended its commitment to transparency, inclusivity and efficiency.

The IEVP, a flagship initiative of the poll panel, aims to foster international cooperation and showcase India’s electoral framework and best practices.