Srinagar: With an aim to ensure maximum voter participation besides making the electoral process pleasant and enriching, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had established 163 special polling stations of different categories for voters in Anantnag- Rajouri Parliamentary Constituency (PC) which went for polling on Saturday in the sixth phase and last phase of general elections to LokSabha 2024.
These women manned, youth manned, PwDs manned, Green Polling Stations, Border Polling Stations, Model Polling Stations and Unique Polling Stations were designed to cater specifically to women, youth, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) besides promoting eco-friendly practices in the region.
The polling stations were established under specific themes in all five districts of Anantnag- Rajouri Parliamentary Constituency.
In Anantnag district, seven women manned, seven PwDs manned, one youth manned, four green, one unique and twenty nine model polling stations were established. Similarly, three women manned, one PwDs manned, four youth manned, three green, twenty border, two unique and nineteen model polling stations were established for ease of voters of Rajouri district.
Likewise, three women manned, three PwD manned, three youth manned, six green, eight border, three unique and four model polling station were established in Poonch district. Besides, three women manned, three PwDs manned, one youth, one green, two unique and fifteen model polling stations were established in Kulgam district.
In Shopian (Zainpora AC only) district, one women manned, one PwDs manned, one youth manned, one green and three model polling station were established.
The newly established polling stations aim to revolutionize the electoral process by ensuring accessibility and representation for all segments of society. With a special focus on women, youth and PwDs, these stations had been equipped with amenities tailored to meet their unique needs, fostering an environment conducive to active participation in the democratic process.
Furthermore, the ECI’s commitment towards environmental sustainability had been exhibited through implementation of green practices at these polling stations. Every aspect had meticulously designed to minimize environmental impact and promote a greener future.
Speaking on this milestone initiative, Chief Electoral Officer, J&K, Pandurang K Pole, said that establishment of these unique polling stations underscores ECI’s unwavering dedication towards fostering inclusivity and sustainability in the electoral process. He added that the ECI believes that every citizen should have equal access to exercise their democratic right, and these polling stations represent a significant step towards achieving that goal.
