EC draws 100-metre ‘Lakshman Rekha’ at polling booths, only voters allowed inside

In a major step to strengthen polling security, the Election Commission of India has decided to create a 100-metre restricted zone around polling booths, described as a “Lakshman Rekha.” The boundary will be marked using white chalk, and only voters will be allowed to enter this area during polling.

According to officials, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and their assistants will remain outside this 100-metre perimeter, where they will verify voter documents. Any unauthorised entry into the restricted zone will be treated as a violation of election rules and may invite immediate action from authorities present at the booth.

The move is aimed at ensuring better crowd control, preventing interference near polling stations, and maintaining transparency in the voting process. In addition, the Commission has decided to bring CCTV cameras of police forces under its direct monitoring system, enabling real-time surveillance from the Chief Electoral Officer’s control room to quickly address any disturbances.

Further tightening its approach, the Commission is set to launch public awareness campaigns outlining electoral offences, penalties, and rules under the Model Code of Conduct. These measures are intended to ensure a free, fair, and transparent election process, with stricter enforcement and enhanced monitoring across polling areas.