Kupwara: The District Election Officer (DEO) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan on Friday convened a meeting of EROs and other officers to review the preparations for upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the district.
The meeting discussed various aspects of the preparations including availability of drinking water, electricity and toilet facilities for camping locations/ identified buildings for accommodation of Para-Military Security forces to be deployed for the LS Polls in Kupwara district.
The DEO on the occasion directed Ex. Engineer PDD and Ex. Engineer PHE to ensure the availability of electricity and water supply for all the camping locations/ buildings as per requirement in consultation with concerned AROs.
She fixed a deadline of April 23 for providing electricity and water supply connections and their necessary extension as per requirement to all identified locations.
The pivotal meeting focused on ensuring effective coordination and addressing any concerns regarding the necessary facilities.
The DEO said that the District Administration is committed to take all necessary measures for successful conduct of ‘free, fair and participative elections.’
The meeting was attended by SSP Kupwara, SSP Handwara, ADDC Kupwara, ADC Handwara, AROs, Dy.DEO, ARTO, Officers of Para- Military Security Force and other concerned officers.
LS Election 2024: Distt Admin organises Awareness Prog at HS Nargistan, Zone Lurgam in Tral
Pulwama: An enlightening SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) awareness programme was on Friday organised by District Administration at HS Nargistan, Zone Lurgam.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from individuals across various demographics, including the general public, women, persons with disabilities (PWD), and senior citizens from Nargistan, Gutroo, Wantinar, Bangidar, and neighboring villages.
The Nodal Officer SVEEP delivered an insightful session emphasizing the pivotal role voting plays in the democratic process. Encouraging everyone to actively participate in the electoral process to strengthen democracy, he highlighted the direct impact a single vote can have on shaping the future and ensuring growth and prosperity.
The program also featured cultural presentations, including traditional performances like Ladishah and chakri by talented students and youth from the village, adding a colorful and festive touch to the occasion.
Participants of the event lauded the initiative and expressed their support for the continuation of such programs to further educate and empower every voter. Various members, including the SVEEP Coordinator, also shared their insights and thoughts during the event.
In a similar effort to create awareness and promote voter education, an awareness program under the SVEEP initiative was successfully organized at HS Gulistaan zone Tral.
These initiatives underline the commitment to fostering a well-informed and actively engaged electorate, ensuring the democratic process thrives through increased participation and awareness.
LS Election 2024: Udhampur’s elderly voters show dedication for upholding democracy
Udhampur: In the picturesque hills of Udhampur, amidst the drizzling rain, stood Chunni Lal, a 91-year-old beacon of unwavering commitment to democracy. Resolute with his walking stick, Lal braved the weather to be the first in queue at the Upper Garnai village polling station for the Lok Sabha General elections of 2024.
“I don’t exactly know how many votes I have cast till now. But I will always do my duty to strengthen the democratic process of our country,” declared Lal as his voice resonated with the wisdom of ages.
Before heading out to cast his ballot, Lal followed his morning routine, a breakfast followed by the catching up on the day’s news on his television set. At the Government School in Upper Garnai, fellow voters honored Lal, making way for him to vote unhindered, a tradition born out of deep respect for his steadfast dedication to the electoral process.
Similarly, in another corner of Udhampur, a heart-warming tale unfolded at the Govt High School Ritti polling station. Naseeb Singh, 93, and his wife Shanti Devi, 87, epitomized the spirit of civic duty as they embarked on a one-kilometer journey, traversing rugged terrain to cast their votes. Accompanied by their son, the elderly couple was greeted with warmth and assistance from polling staff and fellow citizens upon their arrival.
With steady steps, Naseeb Singh and Shanti Devi entered the polling booth, ready to add yet another ballot to their storied rich history of electoral participation.
“All the arrangements were good; we didn’t face any problem while casting our vote,” expressed Shanti Devi, her words echoing the sentiment of a community united in upholding the democratic process.
Meanwhile, amidst the relentless downpour, 75-year-old Vishno Devi displayed unwavering determination at Roun village of Udhampur district to cast her ballot.
Undeterred by the rain, she stood in a lengthy queue, umbrella in hand, patiently waiting for her turn to exercise her democratic right. After enduring a 30-minute wait, Devi finally marked her vote, her steadfastness echoing the importance of this civic duty. Reflecting on her experience, she remarked, “The wait was worth it. Such opportunities to choose our representatives only come once every five years.”
The Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency in Jammu and Kashmir witnessed these inspiring acts of civic engagement during the first phase of the Lok Sabha Elections-2024.
As the rain continued to fall softly, the resilience and dedication of these elderly voters served as a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of democracy amidst the tranquil hills of Udhampur.
LS Election 2024: EO reviews compliance with election expenditure regulations in G’bal
EO also inspects Media Monitoring Cell, Video Monitoring Cell, Joint Control Room
Ganderbal: Expenditure Observer (EO) to 2-Srinagar Parliamentary Constituency, Sambit Mishra on Friday undertook a comprehensive review of compliance with election expenditure regulations in Ganderbal ahead of the Lok Sabha elections 2024.
The meeting was attended by District Election Officer, Shyambir; SSP Ganderbal, Sandeep Gupta; Additional District Development Commissioner Mushtaq Ahmad Simnani, Additional Deputy Commissioner Gulzar Ahmad, Dy DEO, District Treasury Officer, along with various other officials and teams involved in the election process.
The Nodal officer Election Expenditure Monitoring provided a detailed overview of the Election Monitoring mechanism, highlighting the constitution of Election Expenditure Monitoring Cell, Flying Squad Teams, SSTs, and VVTs, all aimed at ensuring rigorous compliance with election expenditure regulations.
During the meeting, the Expenditure Observer underscored the importance of adhering to ECI guidelines, emphasizing the crucial role of each stakeholder in safeguarding the democratic process. He called for a collective commitment towards upholding democratic values and maintaining transparency in electoral expenditures, thus upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
Following the meeting, the Expenditure Observer conducted inspections of Media Monitoring and Social Media Cell, Joint Election Control Room, and Video Monitoring Cell.
Interactions were held with staff members to assess their operations and verify compliance with Election Commission guidelines.
LS Election 2024: General, Police Observer review preparations for elections in border Distt Rajouri
Rajouri: General Observer, Sanjeev Kumar Besra and Police Observer, Akhileshwar Singh on Friday chaired a meeting of officers associated to review arrangements for Lok Sabha elections in Rajouri district.
During the meeting, key aspects of the election preparations were meticulously examined.
District Election Officer Rajouri, Om Prakash Bhagat, provided detailed PowerPoint presentation, elaborating the electoral landscape of the district, informing that 680 polling stations and a total of 484,725 voters are in district.
Moreover, the meeting reviewed the status of Assured Minimum Facilities at polling stations. The DEO also highlighted the completion of physical verification of polling stations, ensuring their readiness for upcoming elections.
It was informed that adequate resources, including Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines, manpower, Security and infrastructure, are in place to facilitate smooth conduct of the elections. Additionally, the establishment of training centers, dispatch/receipt centers, and strong rooms were also discussed to ensure operational efficiency of the District Election Team.
Giving further details, the District Election Officer reassured the Observers that ample manpower have been trained and deployed for the forthcoming elections.
He said a robust voter awareness campaigns in on under the SVEEP initiative to bolster voter turnout and inclusivity. The district SVEEP cell is actively engaged in organizing a myriad of awareness programs to ensure that every eligible voter is empowered to exercise their franchise he added.
The District Election Officer also informed the Observers that a special area plan had been devised for the 45 polling stations located in the border areas. Recognizing the unique challenges and security considerations of these regions, the plan aims to ensure the seamless conduct of elections while prioritizing the safety and accessibility of voters and election personnel.
Meanwhile, the Senior Superintendent of Police also briefed the observers about the comprehensive security measures taken to safeguard the electoral process. He outlined strategies to enhance security at polling stations, deployment of personnel, surveillance teams, and other measures. Additionally, the status of cash seizure by Static Surveillance Teams (SST) and Flying Surveillance Teams (FST) was given out in meeting.
The Observers also reviewed the preparations concerning shadow areas, recognizing the challenges posed by the lack of connectivity in these regions. They emphasized the necessity of deploying alternative communication methods and logistical solutions to address the requirements of these areas during the electoral process.
The Observers also reiterated the paramount importance of strict adherence to Election Commission of India guidelines. They also meticulously outlined the various tasks and duties assigned to the concerned officers encompassing a wide array of responsibilities. They directed the officers to exhibit exemplary commitment, dedication and sincerity while discharging their election duties, recognizing their pivotal role in facilitating free, fair and peaceful elections.
Later, the Observers also visited the counting centres and strong rooms established at Government Degree College Rajouri.
The meeting was attended by ADC Nowshera, Babu Ram Tandan; ADC Koteranka, Adil Mir; ASP, Abdul Majid Basu; ACR, Mohammad Jahangir Khan; Dy DEO, Shakeel Mir; SDM Thanamandi, Abid Hussain Shah; Distt Information Officer, Mohammad Nawaz Choudhary; EXEN REW, Zahir Khan and other concerned officers.
LS Election 2024: SVEEP activities held at GCW Gandhi Nagar, Wave Mall Jammu to promote voter awareness
Jammu : Returning Officer for 5-Jammu Parliamentary Constituency (DEO Jammu), Sachin Kumar Vaishya on Friday inaugurated vibrant SVEEP awareness rally at Government Gandhi Nagar College here.
The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from students representing various colleges across the region.
The venue hosted a plethora of SVEEP activities, prominently among which was performance by Punjabi singer Sangram Hanjra, who captivated the audience with his songs, enlightening them about the significance of exercising their voting rights and encouraging all attendees to cast their votes in the Lok Sabha Elections.
Adding to atmosphere, artists from Natrang theatre group delivered a compelling play highlighting the importance of voting in a democratic society. Various artists from Natrang under guidance of Balwant Thakur performed a play on voter’s awareness and maximum participation.
In addition to the awareness rally, the venue also hosted a training session for polling parties. Participants of the training session were actively engaged in SVEEP awareness activities.
Similar SVEEP activities were also held at Wave Mall here later in the evening, which were prominently also attended by General Election Observer, Rahul Ranjan Mahiwal besides others.
ADDC Sher Singh, Nodal Officer SVEEP (ACD Jammu) Dr. Vikas Sharma, Dy. Director Tribal Affairs Dr. Abdul Khabir along with BDOs and students, were among those present at the event.
GDC Marh hosts farewell for final semester Students
Jammu: Under the aegis of IQAC and farewell Committee, Government Degree College (GDC), Marh organised farewell bonanza to bid adieu to outgoing 6th semester students.
The day was a fiesta devoted to rejoice three years spent together with peer groups, juniors and teachers and reminisce joyful moments.
The chief guest of the occasion was Principal GDC Marh, Prof. Rakesh Kumar Koul.
The programme commenced with lighting of tradition lamp of learning by the Principal of the college and faculty members along with the student Presidium and Alumni.
Colorful performances were showcased by the students of 4th and 2nd semester (Shruti Sharma, Palak Saini and Suhani Choudhary) in honour of their seniors. The programme was organized under the guidance of cultural committee of the college headed by Dr. Ashu Jolly, Dr. Ruchika Bavoria, Dr. Tanu Sharma and students Sushain Sharma (4th Sem), Kashish Sharma (4th Sem), Rahul Kaith (4th Sem), Nandveer Choudhary (4th Sem), Sandeep Mottan (2nd Sem), Rohit Kumar (2nd Sem) besides non-teaching staff members Rachhpal Lal and Mohit Kalotra.
On this occasion mementos as token of respect and souvenir were given by college to all the 69 students of outgoing 6th semesters including student Boby Baitha (First Student who participated in NSS NIC national Camp, Eshan Saini (First student who participated in Khelo India at Guwahati) since the establishment of college.
A competition among seniors was conducted including personality test by faculty judges (Prof Anita Salgotra, Prof Madhvi Parasher, Dr.Ram Dayal, Prof Sachim Bhagat), musical chair, live performance, dance performances, cat walk etc.
Jatin Dogra and Archana Devi of 6th semesters were judged as Farewell and Mrs Farewell after their wonderful performances in different colourful activities.
The Principal of the college, in his key note address, guided the outgoing batch for their forth coming future, giving importance to their vision of life, time management and confidence. He also advised to join hands so that college will be linked with nearby industries for better opportunities and employability enhancement. He also advised the alumni to work towards the development of college including student centric activities.
LS Election 2024: DEO Samba visits border villages, inspects Polling stations, bunkers
Samba : District Election Officer (DEO), Samba, Abhishek Sharma on Friday visited border villages, during which he conducted comprehensive inspection of Polling Stations and bunkers in the area.
The inspection was aimed to evaluate the preparedness for upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024 in the district.
Accompanied by ASP, Surinder Choudhary, Nodal officer SVEEP Mohd Sayeed, DIO, Ashiq Rafiq, Tehsildar and other district and Sectoral officers, the DEO undertook a detailed visit to several polling stations including Green Polling Stations established at GMS Manguchak, GHS Sarthian and PS Chalyari Khurd-B.
These Green Polling Stations have Rain Water harvesting facility and solar plants. The Green polling booths will be decorated with twigs and leaves, and are set to witness no plastic usage.
The DEO took appraisal of arrangements for the night stay of polling staff and security personnel. The basic minimum amenities like electricity, water supply, sanitation facilities, and accessibility for differently-abled voters were also assessed at these polling stations.
During the inspection, the DEO engaged with the stakeholders and asked them to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place to facilitate smooth and efficient voting and other election related process. He directed the officers to submit the contingency route chart.
Expressing satisfaction over preparedness, the DEO underscored the importance of adhering to prescribed ECI guidelines at all polling stations, strong rooms and counting Halls.
He reiterated the unwavering commitment of administration to facilitate free, fair, and transparent elections, wherein every eligible citizen can exercise his /her democratic right with confidence and ease.
LS Election 2024: Training Prog for Micro-Observers held at Shopian
Shopian: The District Election Office, Shopian on Friday conducted a training programme for micro-observers at Meeting Hall Mini-Secretariat, here.
Master Trainers, Irfan Ahmed and Bilal Ahmed presented a detailed presentation regarding the role and responsibilities of Micro Observers in the upcoming Election Day.
Stress was laid on the importance of adhering to Election Commission of India’s guidelines to ensure fair and transparent polling.
Precautions do’s, and don’ts were highlighted to facilitate a hassle-free voting process.
Nodal officers, besides officials and others concerned were present.