India, Feb. 10 -- The Election Commission withdrew its decision to ban mobile phones within 400 yards of polling centres following strong criticism from political parties, civil society and journalists.
The controversy began after the EC issued a circular on Sunday, signed by Senior Assistant Secretary Md Shahidul Islam, instructing all returning officers to prohibit mobile phones within 400 yards of polling centres on election day.
Under the directive, only presiding officers, police officers-in-charge and two Ansar members using the "Election Security 2026" app were allowed to carry mobile phones.
The EC said the measure was aimed at maintaining law and order and ensuring a peaceful voting environment.
The decision immediately trigger...