Rajouri : District Election Officer (DEO) Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, on Tuesday convened a meeting to review the arrangements put in place for counting of votes on October 8 for the Assembly Elections, 2024.
The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rajouri, Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Rajouri, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Rajouri, Returning Officers (ROs), District Informatics Officer (DIO) NIC, and other senior officers of the district administration.
During the meeting, the DEO emphasized the importance of strict adherence to the guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure a smooth and transparent counting process. He directed the Returning Officers to promptly inform candidates and their representatives about the date, time and venue of the counting process. Clear signages must be displayed and the rooms for counting should be properly notified in advance.
The DEO also stressed the need for a separate entry point for candidates and counting staff to avoid any confusion or overcrowding. The District Informatics Officer (DIO) NIC was instructed to ensure robust communication facilities at the counting centers, with a backup leased line in place to prevent any disruptions. A separate room will be designated for General Observers, equipped with communication facilities to assist them in their duties.
Further, the DIO was tasked with setting up a dedicated Media Centre, ensuring the provision of a public address system and making arrangements for media passes. An LCD screen will also be installed to display real-time results during the counting process.
The DEO directed that the law and order be strictly monitored throughout the counting process to avoid any untoward incident. He emphasized that no unauthorized victory processions will be allowed and any celebration must comply with the law.
In addition, a pedestrian zone will be declared within 100 meters of the counting center to enhance security and control the flow of people in the area.
The DEO directed that a three-tier security arrangement be established around the counting centers. Barricading of paths and strict entry protocols will be enforced. Additionally, sufficient Group B staff will be deployed and only individuals of high integrity and accountability will be assigned to counting duties.
Counting Supervisors and Micro Observers will be deployed to oversee the process and videographers will be present to ensure proper videography of the entire event. The DEO further emphasized the need to maintain an account register for postal ballots and Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS), ensuring their accurate and transparent handling.
The DEO concluded by stating that all arrangements must be in line with the guidelines of the Election Commission of India, ensuring a smooth and efficient counting process.
