High-level Indian delegation with three former EC chiefs arrive in Maldives to observe election

A high-level Indian delegation has arrived in the Maldives today to observe the presidential elections to be held on Saturday, 7th September.

A statement released by the Indian High Commission in the Maldives stated that the delegation includes former Chief Election Commissioners of India, Mr. J.M. Lyngdoh, Mr. B.B. Tandon, Mr. N. Gopalaswami, and former High Commissioner of India to Maldives, Mr. S.M. Gavai.

The team is visiting Maldives on the invitation of the Elections Commission of Maldives and would undertake visits to a number of polling stations in different islands, the High Commission said.

The High Commissioner of India to Maldives, Mr. Rajeev Shahare hosted a reception in the honour of the Indian Observers delegation, which was attended by the President of the Election Commission Mr. Fuad Thaufeeg.

India has been closely observing the political atmosphere in the Maldives since the controversial change of power in February 2012. The Indian government has had communications with all four candidates competing for the September 7th presidential elections.