Number of Polling Stations:
Presently there are 8,28,804 polling stations in the country. In 2004 lok sabha elections, there were 6,87,402 polling stations. This shows an increase of 1,41,402 polling stations. The main reason for this increase is largely due to rationalization of polling stations, which the Commission undertook during 2008 and 2009. Around 12,901 new polling stations have been setup in villages having less than 300 electors. This is to address concerns of threat and intimidation to voters. The Election Commission has undertaken an exercise of ‘Vulnerability Mapping’ in all Constituencies so that it can identify areas and voter segments vulnerable to threat and intimidation. The commission has endeavored to provide polling stations in the vulnerable localities. Other reasons for making new polling stations include the following:
Need to reduce the distance required to be traveled by voters.
Geographical barriers such as rivers and hills etc.
This exercise has been done in all the districts after consulting with political parties.