On polling day, the candidate cannot be at every booth. Polling agents represent the candidate inside the polling station and help ensure that the process is fair. Well trained agents can prevent impersonation and errors. Poorly trained agents can miss problems entirely. Here is a practical guide to polling agent duties.
Appointment
A candidate or their election agent appoints polling agents using Form 10 under the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961. Generally one polling agent and two relief agents can be appointed per polling station, but only one can be inside at a time. Agents usually need to be voters of that polling station or of the constituency, as per current Election Commission instructions. Check the latest Handbook for Candidates on the Election Commission of India website for exact rules.
Before Polling Day
Agents should:
- Collect their signed appointment letter and an identity document.
- Get a marked copy of the electoral roll for their part.
- Know the location of the polling station and reporting time.
- Understand the Electronic Voting Machine and VVPAT basics.
At the Polling Station
1. Reporting and Declaration
Agents present Form 10 to the Presiding Officer and sign a declaration. Arrive early because the mock poll begins before actual polling.
2. Mock Poll
The Presiding Officer conducts a mock poll in the presence of agents to show the machines are working correctly and that the count starts from zero. Agents should watch closely, cast mock votes if invited and verify that the mock poll data is cleared and VVPAT slips are removed and sealed as per procedure. They then sign the mock poll certificate.
3. Identifying Voters
During polling, agents watch voters being identified. If they believe a person is impersonating another voter, they can challenge the identity by depositing a fee prescribed under the rules. The Presiding Officer then conducts a summary inquiry. Challenges must be made in good faith, not to harass voters.
4. Marking the Roll
Agents keep track of who has voted on their copy of the roll. This helps the booth team outside to remind supporters who have not voted. Agents must follow instructions about passing information outside, which is generally allowed at fixed intervals without disturbing the process.
5. Watching the Process
Agents ensure that the indelible ink is applied, that the voter’s name is recorded in the register of voters (Form 17A) and that no one interferes with voters in the voting compartment.
6. Close of Poll
At the end of polling, the Presiding Officer closes the machine and prepares the account of votes recorded in Form 17C. Agents are entitled to a copy of Form 17C. This document is very important because it records the total votes polled, which can be compared at counting.
7. Sealing
Agents may put their seals on the machine carrying cases as allowed and observe the sealing process.
Conduct Rules for Agents
- No campaigning inside the polling station.
- No wearing of party symbols inside the booth as restricted by rules.
- Mobile phone use inside the polling station is generally restricted.
- Polite and calm behaviour with officials and voters.
Training Checklist
- Explain the full sequence from mock poll to sealing.
- Show sample forms: Form 10, Form 17A, Form 17C.
- Role play identity challenges and complaints.
- Share contact numbers of the campaign’s legal help desk.
- Provide a printed checklist for the day.
Conclusion
Polling agents are the eyes of the campaign on the most important day. Investing in their training is one of the best uses of campaign time. Combine this with our booth management guide and the counting agent guide for complete coverage.
Need Help With Your Campaign?
DB PR Solution is a Delhi based election management and political PR firm in New Ashok Nagar, Delhi 110096. We help candidates and parties with strategy, surveys, booth management, digital campaigns and media outreach. Call +91 8858986989, email dbprsolution@gmail.com or send us a message to discuss your constituency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which form is used to appoint a polling agent?
Form 10 under the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961.
What is Form 17C?
It is the account of votes recorded at a polling station, prepared by the Presiding Officer at the close of poll. Polling agents can receive a copy.
Can a polling agent use a mobile phone inside the booth?
Mobile phone use inside polling stations is generally restricted under Election Commission instructions. Agents should follow the Presiding Officer’s directions.