This story is from April 8, 2019

Only 1 of five plaints received on cVIGIL app genuine: EC

Only 1 of five plaints received on cVIGIL app genuine: EC
BENGALURU: The cVIGIL mobile application that enables people to report model code of conduct violations continues to be subjected to frivolous use in Karnataka. Only about 20% of the 1,242 complaints posted on the app were genuine and necessitated follow-up action, while most of the rest were selfies, Election Commission officials said.
While announcing last month that cVIGIL will be used for the first time in Lok Sabha polls, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had recalled the app’s successful use in the 2018 Karnataka assembly elections.

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While the app had registered 28,000 complaints during the assembly polls, it has received only 1,242 complaints in Karnataka in this Lok Sabha election (till April 3), 999 of which were of no consequence.
Action was initiated on all 243 genuine complaints, according to joint chief electoral officer Surya Sen. “A progressive state requires vigilant citizens. I request all citizens to download cVIGIL and use the power of a common man to effect change,” he said, adding that selfies are a big menace on the app.
“People are keen on taking selfies and posting them on the app, but citizens should use it for the right purpose. We have tried to give wide publicity to cVIGIL,” said BBMP electoral officer N Manjunatha Prasad.

Of the genuine complaints, 105 pertained to erecting of posters and banners without permission and 83 were related to Electors Photo Identity Cards. Other complaints were to do with campaigning during the ban period, distribution of gifts, coupons, money and liquor, paid news, posters without mandatory declaration, property defacement, religious or communal speeches, transportation of public for rallies and number of vehicles or convoys without permission.
According to Sen, Karnataka is divided into 33 election districts. Raichur reported the highest number of complaints at 23. While Chamarajanagar, Chikkaballapura, Gadag and Yadgir did not receive a single complaint, Bengaluru Central, Mysuru and Udupi registered 19 each.
The app enables citizens to upload pictures/videos of posters, flex boards and decorations displayed at government and public-sector establishments and in public places, which violate the poll code. Defamatory statements and speeches too can be posted on the app. It can be downloaded via Play Store or App Store for free.
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