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VS Sampath, who assumed office as the 18th Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), on Monday said that the commission will strive for the early implementation of electoral reforms which are key for putting an end to criminalisation of politics and undue influence of money power in electoral arena. "Next, all of us know electoral reforms are long overdue. There have been a number of consultations between the Commission, Government, political parties and public at large. The reform proposals are at last mile stage. The commission will strive for the early implementation of electoral reforms," Sampath said. On tackling the use of money power in elections, Sampath said "Our objectives will be two fold - to ensure legal expenses like rally, poster, banner, vehicles etc are kept within the ceiling limits, while simultaneously ensuring that illegal expenses like bribing the voters with cash or kind is effectively prevented". Regarding Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections, Sampath said : "All preparatory works are in full swing and an announcement regarding election schedule is due shortly." "The immediate task on hand is the conduct and completion of the elections to the high offices of the President and Vice-President of India . An orientation workshop for the returning officer, Assistant returning officers and presiding officers for the presidential poll was held last month. All preparatory works are in full swing and an announcement regarding election schedule is due shortly," he said. "We are already engaged in preparation for the forthcoming elections in the states of Gujarat , Himachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Tripura and Meghalaya. Systematic training of personnel has already commenced. Work relating to electoral roll and polling station rationalisation has already been taken up. The Commission will start visiting these States soon," he added. Sampath has assumed charge as the 18th CEC succeeding Dr. S.Y. Quarishi. Dr. Quaraishi laid off his office yesterday after completing his tenure. Prior to this, Sampath has served as Election Commissioner for three years since April 21, 2009. Belonging to the 1973 batch (AP Cadre) of Indian Administrative Service, Sampath served as Secretary in Ministry of Power and Secretary, Chemicals and Petrochemicals. During his long distinguished career spanning about 40 years, he held several key positions in the Government of Andhra Pradesh.

Electoral reforms top priority area, says CEC Sampath