India's Chief Election Commissioner A.K. Joti has said, VVPAT machines will be used along with EVMs in all polling booths of 182 assembly constituencies in Gujarat. He was addressing a press conference in Ahmedabad this evening after reviewing the poll preparations in the state.

As far as the VVPATs  are concerned, EV machines with VVPATs will be used in all the 50,264 polling stations of 182 assembly constituencies of the state.  As per the commission's directions, comprehensive awareness about the use of VVPAT has been carried out by the state level as well as district election level DOs and the ROs to acquaint the electors and political parties about the features and transparency of the VVPATs.

Mr Joti said, if a candidate thinks an EVM has malfunctioned, he or she can complain about it to the Returning Officer who can refer to the slip by VVPAT Machines. He said, in order to increase confidence among voters, one polling booth will be randomly selected for counting of VVPAT slips and this will be tallied with the EVMS.

During the two day visit, the Election Commission met various political parties to understand their issues and concerns. Commission noted their suggestions for holding free fair and peaceful elections in the state. It also reviewed work of District Magistrates, SPs, Police Commissioners, DIGs/IGs and discussed issues with Chief secretary, Home secretary, DGP and other senior officers of the state. The Commission directed the State Election Machinery to ensure effective monitoring & vigilance to address concern of political parties and instil confidence in the electorate.

The state will go to polls in two phases. The first phase will be held on the 9th and the second on the 14th of this month. Counting will take place on the 18th of this month.

Meanwhile, campaigning has gained momentum as top leaders of all major political parties are trying to woo the voters.

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