New Delhi : The Legislative Assembly elections in Kerala, Puducherry, and Assam have attracted significant global attention, with 38 international delegates from 22 countries witnessing the scale, precision, and vibrancy of India’s electoral process under the Election Commission of India’s International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) 2026.
Describing the experience as a “true festival of democracy,” delegates expressed admiration for the high voter participation, meticulous planning, and seamless execution of elections. Branimir Farkas from Croatia remarked that the enthusiasm of Indian voters was overwhelming and noted that the scale and efficiency of the process offer valuable lessons for the world.
The two-day visit (April 8–9) began with delegates observing dispatch and distribution centres across the three regions, where polling teams and election materials were mobilised through well-coordinated logistics and standard operating procedures. They also interacted with Chief Electoral Officers and State Police Nodal Officers to understand election management and security arrangements. Visits to CCTV control rooms at CEO offices—monitoring 100% webcasting of polling stations—were described as a strong pillar of transparency.
Uuc-Kib Espadas Ancona from Mexico highlighted that India’s electoral system serves as an important learning platform for other nations.
On polling day, delegates observed mock polls before visiting polling stations in Kamrup Metro and Kamrup Rural (Assam), Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), and Puducherry to witness the live voting process. They appreciated the inclusive and accessible arrangements, including ramps, wheelchairs, volunteers, and crèche facilities, as well as special polling stations managed by women and persons with disabilities.
Fahima Araphat Abdallah from Kenya praised the “inclusivity of the highest order,” while Paulus Shigwedha from Namibia commended the well-organised facilities at polling stations.
Delegates also visited district-level media monitoring centres and lauded the continuous oversight through webcasting. Participation in plantation drives at polling locations highlighted India’s efforts to integrate eco-friendly and sustainable practices into election management. Abubakarr Mahmoud Koroma from Sierra Leone particularly appreciated the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), noting that several aspects of India’s electoral system could be adapted globally.
In Puducherry, delegates were impressed by enhanced vigilance measures such as flying squads, drone-based monitoring, and innovative initiatives like the welcoming robot “Nila.” In Kerala, a Gen Z-themed polling booth drew attention for engaging young voters, while in Assam’s Kamrup (Rural), delegates welcomed the availability of health check-up facilities at polling stations.
The smooth conduct of polling and high voter turnout left a lasting impression on the visiting teams. Delegates expressed gratitude to the Election Commission of India for the opportunity, commending its commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and excellence. They noted that while the world watches and learns, India continues to set global benchmarks in conducting elections at an unparalleled scale—truly embodying the spirit of a festival of democracy.
The International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP), a flagship initiative of the Election Commission of India, aims to foster international cooperation with Election Management Bodies and organisations worldwide. It offers delegates a comprehensive understanding of India’s electoral framework, institutional mechanisms, and best practices, showcasing innovations that strengthen democratic processes globally.