A delegation of media representatives from Odisha participated in the All India Media Conference 2026, organised by the Election Commission of India (ECI) at the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) in New Delhi. Addressing the delegates, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar stated that India’s electoral process is conducted strictly in accordance with the Constitution, electoral laws, and the guidelines issued by the ECI from time to time. He emphasised that every stage of the election process is subject to review and audit by all stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Highlighting the confidence of citizens in the democratic process, Kumar said the record voter turnout witnessed in the recently concluded Assembly elections reflects the immense trust that Indian voters place in the country’s electoral system. He also thanked voters for their active participation in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls. The conference aimed to enhance understanding of India’s transparent electoral process and the collaborative role of key stakeholders, including political parties, candidates and the media. ECI Director General (Media) Ashish Goel described the media as a “powerful bridge” connecting the Election Commission with voters, underlining its vital role in strengthening democratic participation.
Held under the theme “Connecting Stakeholders, Strengthening Democracy: Role of Media in Elections,” the conference focused on the media’s responsibility in promoting free, fair and informed elections. Discussions centred on disseminating accurate, impartial and timely information, countering misinformation, and increasing voter awareness ahead of upcoming elections. As part of the programme, senior journalists received orientation on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls to enable them to effectively educate the public and communicate accurate information through various media platforms.
Nine senior journalists from Odisha attended the conference under the leadership of Dinamani Nayak from the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Odisha. The delegation comprised Jyoti Prakash Das, Ravi Narayan Jena, Jajati Karan, Ajit Dehury, Chaudhary Amitav Das, Shaktisai Mishra, Mukesh Ranjan Parida, Abhijit Samantaray and Jajati Keshari Rout.