In the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, radio jockeys could be the Election Commission's warriors taking on the doubts that are being raised about the integrity of electronic voting machines.
The Election Commission, recognising the wide reach of FM radio, has decided to engage with radio channels as part of its initiatives for voter education, with a special focus on creating awareness on the EVM and how the paper trail verification of votes (VVPAT) works.
The Election Commission, as part of its initiative to engage with various stakeholders to increase voter awareness, has roped in FM radio channels. It recently organised a workshop for radio jockeys of leading FM radio stations. As many as 19 RJs from prominent radio stations—including BIG FM, Red FM, Fever 104 FM, Radio Nasha, Ishq FM and Radio City—attended the workshop.
The Election Commission expects FM radio to be an important medium that will connect the voters with the election machinery. According to an Election Commission official, the purpose of the workshop was to familiarise the RJs with the election process, so that they can help in wide and accurate dissemination of information to their listeners.
The RJs, at the workshop, were given information on the various initiatives taken by the Election Commission for voter education, with special focus on EVM VVPAT awareness. The radio stations are also expected to tell the listeners about how they can register as voters and also how they can verify their details on the electoral rolls ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
The workshop saw the RJs discussing their queries, and they assured the Election Commission that they would disseminate voter education in an organic manner.
