Election Commission Launches 'Know Your Candidate' App Ahead Of Lok Sabha Elections; Features & More

As the anticipation builds for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar unveiled a powerful tool for voters - the 'Know Your Candidate' (KYC) mobile application. This app aims to provide voters with essential information about electoral candidates, particularly regarding any criminal records they may have.

Addressing the media, CEC Rajiv Kumar emphasized the importance of transparency in the electoral process. He stated, "Voters have the right to know about the criminal records of candidates from their constituencies, as well as their assets and liabilities." The KYC app is designed to empower voters by offering them access to crucial details about the candidates vying for their support.

Explaining the functionality of the app, Kumar highlighted its user-friendly interface and accessibility across both Android and iOS platforms. He elaborated, "With the KYC app, voters can easily ascertain whether a candidate standing for Lok Sabha elections has a criminal background." This information, previously challenging to access, is now readily available at voters' fingertips.

Moreover, the Election Commission has mandated that parties fielding candidates with criminal records must justify their selections. Candidates themselves are required to disclose their criminal history, making this information public knowledge. Kumar emphasized, "Candidates with a criminal record must publish this information in newspapers and on television three times."

The KYC app's availability on popular app stores, Google Play Store, and Apple App Store, underscores the Election Commission's commitment to facilitating informed voting. The app can be easily downloaded, enabling voters to make educated decisions come election day.

In addition to the Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission announced the dates for several assembly elections. Andhra Pradesh is set to go to polls on May 13, while Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim will have elections on April 19. Notably, 26 assembly seats across various states will also undergo by-polls concurrently with the Lok Sabha elections.

The introduction of the KYC app represents a significant step towards enhancing transparency and accountability in the electoral process. By empowering voters with vital information, the Election Commission aims to foster greater trust and participation in democracy.

*Inputs from ANI*