Citizens avail ECI’s cVigil app, over 447 complaints received

March 16: With the announcement of the polling dates by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on February 26, 2021, the Model of Conduct (MCC) has come into force in five states, including Assam. ECI has introduced a user-friendly application called cVigil, in order to empower and encourage the citizens to report on any MCC violations promptly.

The uniqueness of the app is that it only allows live photo/ video with auto-location capture to ensure digital evidence for flying squads to act upon in a time-bound manner. Since February 26, over 447 MCC grievances have been registered so far through cVigil app. Out of these, 247 complaints have been found to be correct which were thoroughly examined and disposed.

All these complaints relate to usage of posters/ banners used without permission, liquor and money distribution, property defacement, religious or communal speeches/messages, vehicle or convoy without permission etc. It may be mentioned that this cVigil app is applicable within the geographical boundary of the state. The user will have 5 minutes time to upload photo or video after capturing it. The app does not allow prerecorded or pre-shot photos or videos and does not allow the user to store it in the device. To prevent misuse and repetition, a person will not be allowed to lodge another complaint within the next 15 minutes.