Ganderbal: In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections, the District Election Officer (DEO) Ganderbal, Shyambir made a comprehensive field visit on Friday to assess the readiness of the polling infrastructure within the Ganderbal Assembly Constituency (AC).
The inspection covered the Dispatch cum Receipt Centre (DCRC) at Government Degree College Ganderbal as well as several other polling stations across the constituency.
The DEO’s visit focused on ensuring that all polling stations are equipped with Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) to ensure a smooth and accessible voting process for all electorate members.
He inspected the key facilities including the availability of ramps for wheelchair access, adequate drinking water facilities, proper electricity, toilet facility, and specialized facilities to Persons with Disabilities (PwD).
Shyambir emphasized the need for meticulous preparations to facilitate a transparent and hassle-free voting experience.
The DEO stated that our focus is to ensure that every voter has a fair and equitable voting experience. He gave necessary instructions and exhorted close coordination among concerned officials to ensure that facilities at all polling stations meet the highest standards of accessibility and efficiency.
He thoroughly reviewed the arrangements at the Dispatch cum Receipt Centre, which plays a crucial role as the hub for dispatching poll parties and election materials to the polling stations within the 18-Ganderbal Assembly Segment.
The visit was part of a broader initiative to safeguard the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process.
The DEO was accompanied by SSP Ganderbal, Sandeep Gupta, ACR/ARO of Ganderbal Assembly Constituency, Chief Education Officer and other officials, ensuring a coordinated approach towards a successful electoral exercise.
LS Elections Phase II: Empowering Democracy: YSS G’bal inspires Youth engagement through cycle race under SVEEP
Ganderbal: The Youth Services and Sports department Ganderbal under the Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program 2024 orchestrated a zonal level cycle race for boys AAG in Zone Tullamulla of the district.
The race commenced at Baroosa Crossing, winding through the Central University of Kashmir road, culminating at GHSS Tullamulla amid applause and jubilation.
The event, aimed at fostering voter awareness among the youth, reiterated the motto, ‘No Voter is to be left behind,’ emphasizing the crucial role of every vote in the democratic fabric of the nation.
Over 150 enthusiastic students participated, exuding zeal and fervor throughout.
Meanwhile, in Zone Kangan, a spirited inter-school zonal level Chess tournament for Boys U/14 years took place at MS Kijpara, witnessing the active involvement of numerous enthusiastic students.
Additionally, GHS Shallabugh of Zone Ganderbal conducted a Voter Awareness program in the vicinity of the school.
LS Elections Phase II: SVEEP programs held at Govt institutions in several Pulwama villages
Pulwama: The Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiatives were on Friday conducted with great enthusiasm and participation at two venues viz. HSS Panzgam and HSS Chakura, here.
The programs showcased a diverse array of activities aimed at fostering voter education and participation. Highlights included captivating cultural performances, energetic rallies, enchanting Kashmiri Chakri performances by girl groups, and comprehensive voter awareness sessions.
The programmes witnessed participation of all stakeholders like local bodies, BLO, Aasha workers, lumberdars, Young voters, PWDs and Senior Citizens.
A painting competition and plantation drive were also carried out under the banners of SVEEP.
These events exemplify the District Administration’s commitment to empowering citizens with the knowledge and resources necessary to exercise their democratic rights effectively.
LS Elections Phase II: Celebration of Democracy: Border villages come alive with enthusiastic voters
R S Pura (Jammu): In the sprawling wheat fields of RS Pura and Suchetgarh villages, nestled along the International Border, a vibrant celebration of democracy unfolded. These remote communities, despite enduring challenging weather conditions, ensured an unprecedented voter turnout, emerging as beacons of participation.
The journey to polling booths wasn’t just a physical one; it was a testament to the unwavering spirit of democracy that runs deep within these communities. First time voter Manish Kumar from Jajowal village of Chakroi in Suchetgarh Assembly Segment, couldn’t contain his enthusiasm. “I’m thrilled to cast my first vote,” he said while waiting in the queue at the PanchayatGharJajowal polling station. “It empowers us to choose our representative for progress. I’ve been eagerly waiting for this day!” His excitement echoed the sentiment of many young voters who traveled all the way from Punjab to exercise their franchise in their native villages.
For these villagers, voting transcends civic duty. It’s a commitment towards shaping their nation’s future. Decades of enduring cross-border shelling haven’t dampened their spirits. Their resolve to vote stems from a deep-seated belief in the power of their ballots.
Beyond the impressive numbers lies a powerful narrative of hope and determination. Each ballot cast is a declaration of resilience, a reaffirmation of faith in the democratic process. These villages, standing tall in the face of adversity, exemplify the indomitable spirit of the Indian electorate. Their overwhelming turnout sends a resounding message: democracy is not just a privilege, but a responsibility they wholeheartedly embrace.
Bipin Singh, another first time voter from SaiKalan village, Suchetgarh, echoed this sentiment. “I’m honored to cast my first vote,” he said, standing patiently in a long queue. “It’s my power, and I’ll use it for my area’s development.” His message resonated with many young voters, urging them to participate and strengthen the nation’s democratic fabric.
At polling station 97-Nakowal, situated along the border village of the same name, Presiding Officer Sahil Rattan and his dedicated team ensured a smooth voting experience. Similarly, nonagenarian Munshi Ram, assisted by his family, cast his vote at 99-Sai Khurd polling station in RS Pura. “Voting makes me happy,” he said after exercising his franchise. “It gives me inner peace, irrespective of the winner. I’m content knowing I fulfilled my duty.”
Meanwhile, located near the renowned Border Out Post Octroi in RS Pura, polling station 61-Abdal reported a significant turnout with over 50% of registered voters casting their ballots by 3 pm.
Interestingly, BOP Octroi itself is attracting visitors from various regions of the country and highlights the growing popularity of border tourism.
The enthusiastic participation of RS Pura and Suchetgarh villages serves as an inspiration for all: a powerful reminder that democracy thrives when its citizens actively engage in the process.