Pune: Election Officials Warn Against Fake WhatsApp Messages on Voting Process
Pune, 18th November 2024: A misleading message is circulating on WhatsApp, claiming that individuals whose names are not on the voter list can still vote by filling out Application Form No. 17 and presenting their voter ID card. The Pune District Election Administration has issued a warning, stating that strict action will be taken against those spreading such false messages and rumours about the election process.
It has been clarified that Form No. 17 is specifically intended for students seeking external admission for the 10th and 12th examinations. Spreading false information regarding its use in voting creates confusion among citizens, causing unnecessary trouble for both the public and the administration. Reports have emerged of such messages being circulated in the district, prompting the administration to appeal to citizens to exercise caution, avoid believing in rumours, and refrain from forwarding such messages.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has confirmed that extensive work has been carried out over the past year in all assembly constituencies under the Special Brief Campaign 2024, focusing on voter registration, exclusion, and correction. Voter lists have been updated following all prescribed rules, including the omission of names where applicable.
The administration emphasized that the information being shared via WhatsApp is entirely false. If a person’s name is not on the voter list, they cannot vote. However, those whose names are included on the voter list can cast their votes by presenting their voter ID card or any one of the 12 identification proofs accepted by the ECI.
