Kupwara: In order to review the progress of preparations being made with regard to Polling Station preparations, accessibility for upcoming Lok Sabha Elections in the district, a meeting was held on Thursday under the Chairpersonship of the District Election Officer (DEO) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan at Mini- Meeting Hall of the DC Office Complex, here.
The DEO took a detailed appraisal from Nodal Officer Welfare, ACD Kupwara and BDOs about the arrangements being made at Polling Stations, their accessibility and AMFs.
On the occasion, the DEO directed, Nodal Officer Polling Stations/ BDOs to check polling stations so that all requisite/Assured Minimum Facilities (AMFs) including electricity, water supply, shade, ramp and functional toilet facilities at all the 607 designated polling stations is ensured, besides making all welfare measures for the polling staff and security personnel on poll day.
DEO instructed that Aanganwadi workers and ASHAs will take care of queue management of women voters during the poll day.
She stressed on the officers to focus on AMFs and arrange additional chairs and facilities of shade for ailing voters, PwD voters, elderly and Women.
The DEO directed the BDOs to identify the few model polling stations in each assembly segment of the district as model polling stations and undertake some innovative activities, beautification, display of local traditional artifacts, so that these polling stations give a festive look on the poll day and the district gets appreciation.
The meeting was attended by Special Nodal Officer Elections, Sameer Jan; Nodal Officer Welfare, Hakeem Tanveer; ACD Kupwara, Muhammad Muzaffar; CMO Kupwara, Dr. Ramzan; BDOs besides other concerned Officers.
LS Elections 2024: DEO Poonch supervises election staff training at Mendhar
Mendhar : District Election Cell Poonch on Thursday organised second leg of training for Election Staff here at Mendhar under the supervision of District Election Officer (DEO), Yasin M. Choudhary.
The programme aimed to enhance the preparedness for upcoming Lok Sabha Elections to ensure fair, transparent and smooth conduct of elections.
The training session featured demonstrations by master trainers on the proper sealing, installation, and functioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Forms were also distributed for postal ballots to officials attending training.
The polling personnel were sensitized about their crucial role during the electoral process. They were asked to strictly follow the guidelines of ECI to ensure the integrity of electoral process.
The District Election officer emphasized upon the polling officers to perform their duties with utmost zeal and dedication, upholding principles of democracy and ensuring transparent and impartial electoral process.
Among others, SDM Mendhar and other officers accompanied the DEO during the visit. Similar training sessions were also conducted in Poonch and Surankote.
LS Elections 2024: ARO (M) briefs political parties about facilities for migrant voters of Udhampur
Udhampur : A meeting was held on Thursday in the Office of ARO Migrants (M) Udhampur in which political representatives of Anantnag-Rajouri, Baramulla and Srinagar Parliamentary Constituencies participated.
During the meeting threadbare discussion was held regarding maximum participation of Kashmiri Migrants in the Parliamentary Elections 2024.
The political representatives put forward suggestions for increasing participation of people in the elections.
The ARO keenly listened to the delegations and assured that all of their suggestions shall be taken care of keeping in view the MCC and all other instructions of ECI.
The political representatives on this occasion were imparted knowledge about Form M and Form 12C and it was impressed upon all the participants to make maximum use of these forms well in time so that necessary arrangements can be made at the Polling Station.
LS Elections 2024: General, Police Observers review election preparedness in Banihal
Ramban : General Observer, Dheeraj Kumar and Police Observer, Daljit Singh for the 4-Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency on Thursday conducted comprehensive assessment of election preparedness in the Assembly Constituency (AC)-55 Banihal.
Among others, they were accompanied by District Election Officer Ramban, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary; Senior Superintendent of Police Anuj Kumar, ARO, AC-55 Banihal, Rizwan Asgar and several other officers.
The Observers inspected the Election strong room at Government Model Higher Secondary School Boys, Banihal, besides the Control Room and other arrangements.
The General Observer also inspected Strong Room lodged with EVMs and VVPATs in presence of representatives of political parties.
During the visit, detailed discussions were held on the enforcement of model code of conduct, expenditure monitoring, Security plan, Transport and Communication plan besides functioning of VST and flying squads.
Reviewing the plans worked out by the administration for polling, the Observer said that proper training of polling staff is the key for successful conduct of elections. He directed the district administration to ensure quality training and better human resource management to ensure smooth conduct of elections scheduled to be held on April 19, 2024 in the district.
Emphasising on enhancement of voter turnout, the Observer asked the officers to sensitize voters under Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) activities comprehensively throughout the district. He further directed AROs and Nodal Officers to adhere to the latest guidelines from the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Meanwhile, the District Election Officer briefed the Observers about the election preparedness at the polling station level, including plans for dispatching polling parties, monitoring the model code of conduct, and managing media certification and expenditure vigilance. Senior Superintendent of Police, Ramban, also provided insights into the security plan being formulated for the district to ensure the elections proceed smoothly.
LS Elections 2024: DEO Rajouri reviews working of FSTs, SSTs
Rajouri : District Election Officer (DEO), Rajouri, Om Prakash Bhagat on Thursday presided over a meeting to review working of Flying Squad and Surveillance Teams (FSTs) and Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) and Tehsildars, regarding Lok Sabha Elections 2024.
During the meeting, the DEO enlightened the participants about their role and responsibilities in maintaining law and order, preventing electoral malpractices, and promptly reporting/addressing violations. The participants deliberated on strategies to enhance vigilance and ensure strict adherence to election guidelines.
During the session, the DEO emphasized on the significance of maintaining registers for documenting their actions, thereby ensuring transparency and accountability. He underscored the importance of adhering to legal provisions guiding their actions, emphasizing the gravity of their responsibilities in upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
The teams were also asked for proper implementation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC), as mandated by the Election Commission of India (ECI).
The DEO directed for strict adherence to all guidelines set forth by the ECI, stressing the pivotal role each individual plays in upholding the sanctity of electoral process.
Furthermore, DEO underscored the necessity for seamless coordination and collaboration among the FSTs and SSTs, in accordance with the directives laid down by the ECI. Emphasizing the importance of synergy in action, he highlighted the need for synchronized efforts to ensure the efficacy and fairness of the electoral process.
A dedicated district-level control room has been established to facilitate the expeditious resolution of public grievances and to streamline the conduct of elections for ensuring the concerns/complaints promptly and effectively.
The meeting was attended by the ADDC, Raj Kumar Thapa; ASP, Abdul Majid Basu; ADC Rajouri, Rajeev Kumar Khajuria; DSEO, Sandeep Sharma; Dy DEO, Shakeel Mir; DTO, Mohammad Bashir; Tehsildars; DySP HQr, Ashwini Sharma and other concerned officers.
LS Elections 2024: Awareness Prog for Women voters under SVEEP held at Ramban
Ramban : The Election Department Ramban, led by District Election Officer, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, on Thursday organized an awareness programme for women voters here under Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative.
The programme, tailored for women voters and Anganwadi staff, aimed to empower them with essential knowledge about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines, crucial tools in the electoral process.
Under the supervision of Nodal Officer for Women Awareness and Welfare AC-54, Ravinder Kour, the programme focused on imparting operational skills and troubleshooting techniques related to EVMs and VVPATs.
By equipping women with this vital understanding, the Election Department Ramban reaffirms its commitment to ensure integrity of electoral process. With the General Election Lok Sabha scheduled for April 19, 2024, for the 04-Udhampur constituency, the Election Department Ramban remains resolute in its mission to enhance voter education and engagement, thereby strengthening democracy at its grassroots.
LS Elections 2024: SVEEP Cell Udhampur organizes awareness camp for senior citizens, PwD voters
Udhampur : SVEEP Cell DC office Udhampur in collaboration with Senior Citizen Club and Divyang Ashram on Thursday organized an awareness camp for Senior citizens and PwD voters at Senior Citizen Club (SCC) here.
District Election Officer Udhampur, Saloni Rai; Deputy District Election Officer Dr. Anirudh Rai; District SVEEP Nodal Officer Dr Preeti Sharma; District Social Welfare Officer Kanika Gupta and other senior citizen club members actively participated in the event.
In her address, the DEO urged senior citizens and PwD voters to participate in Lok Sabha Elections 2024. She appealed the community to encourage every voter in their villages to exercise their right to vote.
Local language songs advocating for voting were performed by students from Government Degree College Boys Udhampur.
Advocate Swatantar Dev Kotwal delivered a poem on Democracy. Additionally, some senior citizens recited poems emphasizing the importance of voter participation in building a stronger democracy.
LS Elections 2024: Satyanarayan Bhupathi reviews election expenditure of Udhampur Parl Constituency
Kathua : The maiden review meeting on monitoring of election expenditure in the Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency was convened on Thursday here in the conference hall of DC office complex.
The meeting, chaired by Expenditure Observer for Udhampur PC, Satyanarayan Raju Bhupathi, was attended by Returning Officer for Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency, Dr. Rakesh Minhas (DC Kathua), Nodal Officer EMC Kathua Shokat Mahmood, Assistant Expenditure Observers, accounting teams from all assembly segments of Udhampur PC, and representatives of political parties.
The Expenditure Observer led comprehensive discussions on expenditure monitoring mechanism employed during the elections, emphasizing adherence to norms and guidelines outlined by the Election Commission of India for smooth conduct of elections. He also oversaw the expenditure methodologies adopted by candidates and accounting teams, suggesting measures for proper upkeep of day wise expenses of the candidates.
An interactive session provided an opportunity for officers involved in expenditure monitoring to address queries and concerns, with a focus on upholding the principles of ethical voting and facilitating free and fair elections.
Central to the meeting was a detailed examination of the expenditure incurred by each contesting candidate. Accounting teams meticulously reviewed expenditures, maintaining shadow registers to ensure accuracy and accountability throughout the electoral process.
The Returning Officer Dr Rakesh Minhas said that our accounting teams are keeping a vigil eye on the expenditure of the candidates with commitment to uphold electoral integrity and accountability strictly as per the ECI’s guidelines.
LS Elections 2024: General, Police Observers review election preparedness in Doda
Doda : The General Observer for 4-Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency, Dheeraj Kumar and Police Observer, Daljit Singh, conducted a comprehensive meeting with Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) and Nodal Officers in the Conference Hall, here on Thursday.
During the meeting, they emphasised the need for close coordination to assess and enhance election preparedness across the District.
District Election Officer Doda Harvinder Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police Doda Javaid Iqbal and other Officers and officials were present.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on different aspects including the enforcement of the model code of conduct, expenditure monitoring, security plans, transport and communication plans, and the functioning of VST and flying squads.
The meeting highlighted that there are 529 polling stations in 3 ACs, with approximately 80 critical polling stations.
Additionally, nine Model polling stations were identified, managed by women, youth, and PWD employees. The availability of trained personnel was also discussed, including SLMTs, DLMTs, and ALMTs.
District Election Officer Doda provided a detailed overview of election preparedness at the polling station level, including plans for a single-window system for granting permissions, monitoring the model code of conduct, Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC), vigilance on expenditure, and management of paid news.
The review also included the assessment of SVEEP activities across the district, with a directive to enhance voter awareness efforts. Officers were instructed to ensure readiness for all election-related activities and training sessions.
During the meeting, the police deployment plan across the district was highlighted, emphasizing the importance of frequent visits by sector officers to assess all parameters regarding polling stations or sectors. The aim is to ensure comprehensive security coverage and effective management during the Lok Sabha elections of 2024.
The Observer also reviewed the SVEEP activities across the district and urged to enhance such activities to raise awareness among the voters. The Observer also directed the concerned officers and officials involved in the Lok Sabha elections 2024 to ensure that all activities and training sessions regarding the election remain ready.
During the meeting, the observer also directed the sector officers to make frequent visits to the stations or sectors to assess all the parameters regarding polling. Additionally, the police deployment plan and transport plan across the district was highlighted during the meeting.
LS Elections 2024: Democracy Trek organized at Paddar Kishtwar under SVEEP
Kishtwar :: To promote maximum voter turnout for Lok Sabha Elections, District Election Office Kishtwar, under the direction of District Election Officer (DEO), Dr. Devansh Yadav, organized a Democracy Trek in Assembly Constituency 50 Paddar Nagseni under Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative.
Under the supervision of Deputy District Election Officer/Nodal Officer SVEEP, Idrees Lone, a group of 25 trekkers embarked on meaningful journey, which was ceremoniously flagged off from the Gulabgarh Paddar base camp. The flag-off ceremony was graced by the presence of BDO headquarter Chahat Bharti and BDO Trigam Chandan Manhas, both serving as Nodal Officers for Women Polling Stations, alongside enthusiastic participants and students from GMS Gulabgarh Paddar.
Led by the experienced guidance of Abhilash Sharma, the trek spanned from Kundail headquarters to Dangail camp at Sumcham near the Sapphire Valley of Kishtwar. The snow-covered terrain added a picturesque charm to the journey, enhancing the trekking experience for all involved.
Throughout the trek, the participants actively disseminated the crucial message of voting and the significance of the upcoming elections, contributing to voter awareness and civic engagement.
Additionally, as part of the initiative, a plantation drive was conducted at Kundhail in collaboration with the Forest Department, Sub Division Paddar. Range officers, including Shakti Kumar, graced the occasion with their presence, further emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
The Democracy Trek serves as a unique platform to combine adventure with civic responsibility, fostering a sense of community engagement and active citizenship among participants. It underscores the importance of voter education and outreach in ensuring a vibrant and participatory democracy.
LS Elections 2024: GDC Ramgarh organises rally, nukkad natak to spread voters awareness
Samba :: NSS unit Prabha and ELC of Government Degree College, Ramgarh organised a rally and Nukkad Natak on voters awareness under the aegis of Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP).
The event was organised under the guidance and supervision of Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Geetanjali Andotra.
Speaking on the occasion, she highlighted the significance of empowering students and community with essential civic rights and duties.
The Nukkad Natak and rally were directed and organised by SVEEP Nodal Officers, Prof. Sandeep Kumari, from the Dept. of Education, and Prof. Brham Dutt from the Department of Dogri.
The rally aimed to enlighten the masses about the importance of exercising their right to vote. The Nukkad Natak was performed by the students who are the members of ELC outside the premises of Baba Sidh Goria Temple ground, Kalah, near college. The aim of the activity was to spread the important message among the masses about the significance of their one vote.
The people were motivated to participate in upcoming elections and were enlightened about the role each citizen plays in shaping the democratic fabric of the nation.
All the faculty members and students of the College enthusiastically witnessed the performance and promised to cast their vote in the upcoming elections.
LS Elections 2024: Mehndi Art Competition under SVEEP held at GDC Khansahib
Budgam: As part of the ongoing Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) campaign, a Mehndi art competition was on Thursday organized by the Electoral Literacy Club of GDC Khansahib.
The aim of the competition was to raise democratic awareness among the newly eligible voters. The activity, apart from beautiful designs, focused on themes like Mera Phala Vote-Desh Ke Liye, My Vote – My Choice, Vote for a Better India, etc.
The female students of college, particularly the NSS volunteers, took active part in this activity and also pledged to cast their vote without any fear or favour.
Dr. Nargis Bano, Principal of the institution, and Dr Sajad Padder, NSS Programme Officer and ELC officer appreciated students’ enthusiasm and commitment towards democratic values and traditions.
First Quarterly UTRC meeting successfully held, setting a benchmark for Criminal Justice in Srinagar
Srinagar: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar under the aegis of J&K Legal Services Authority on Thursday convened the inaugural quarterly meeting of Under Trial Review Committee (UTRC) in the office Chamber of Principal District & Session Judge (Chairman DLSA) Srinagar.
The meeting was chaired by the Jawad Ahmed, Principal District & Session Judge (Chairman DLSA) Srinagar and witnessed active participation from key stakeholders, including Ashish Mishra, S.S.P Srinagar; Syed Ahmad Kataria, ADC Srinagar; Jahangir Ahmad Bakshi, Secretary DLSA Srinagar; Sheikh Zulfikar Azad, SSP, Central Jail Srinagar; Aijaz Ahmad, Chief Prosecuting Officer, Srinagar; Dr. Sheikh Athar Senior Medical Officer, Central Jail Srinagar; Saad Ganie, Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel and Zulfi Tasneem, Deputy Legal Aid Counsel.
The committee reviewed the cases of 9 under trial prisoners, engaging in thorough discussions and deliberations. Each case was meticulously examined, and after thoughtful consideration, the committee formulated suitable recommendations tailored to the specific circumstances of each individual.
Jawad Ahmed, the Chairman of the meeting, emphasized the paramount importance of UTRC gatherings in ensuring fair and expedited trials for under trial prisoners.
He underscored the need for regular initiatives such as these to streamline the criminal justice system and uphold the principles of equity and justice.
LS Elections 2024: DNO MCC Kulgam reviews functioning of FSTs & SSTs for strict enforcement of MCC
Kulgam: The District Nodal Officer (DNO), Model Code of Conduct (MCC), Ab Rashid Dass on Thursday chaired a review meeting of 09-Flying Squad Teams (FSTs) and 12 Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) for proper enforcement of the MCC in the district.
The Nodal Officer urged FSTs and SSTs to strictly enforce the guidelines of MCC issued by the Election Commission of India which lays down a list of Do’s and Don’ts for political parties, political leaders, political Workers and Govt Officers/ officials to be observed during entire process of General Election to Lok Sabha-2024.
The Nodal Officer impressed upon the magistrates to work with zeal and zest and beef up the searching and frisking process to check the misuse of Drugs, Liquor, Cash, Gifts etc used for influencing the voters.
The FSTs were directed to play a proactive role in timely disposal of election related complaints through C-vigil App/ESMS App as well as complaints received through offline mode.
The teams were directed to coordinate and cooperate with each other for successful enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct in the district.
SVEEP: DEO G’bal reviews arrangements for mega Voter Awareness Prog to be held at Sonamarg
Ganderbal: In a bid to bolster public participation in the forthcoming General Elections, the District Administration Ganderbal has slated a mega voter awareness event to be held at the picturesque locale of Sonamarg.
Under the umbrella of the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative, this event aims to engage and educate citizens about the importance of exercising their franchise in a democratic setup.
The District Election Officer, Shyambir, chaired a meeting to meticulously review and coordinate the arrangements for the impending event. The meeting was attended by key stakeholders and officials vested in ensuring the success of this significant endeavor.
It was unanimously decided that the event will be under the astute supervision of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kangan, tasked with orchestrating seamless preparations encompassing date finalization, venue selection, and the duration of a comprehensive itinerary for the event.
Numerous activities and arrangements were deliberated upon during the meeting, reflecting the diverse spectrum of engagement planned for attendees. These include awareness workshops, cultural extravaganzas, community gatherings, innovative snow art exhibitions, captivating painting and quiz competitions, enthralling skits, and spirited rallies.
The event aims to inform and also to inspire citizens to actively participate in the democratic process, thereby fostering a robust and inclusive electoral culture within the district.
The District Administration Ganderbal extends a warm invitation to all residents and stakeholders to join hands in this noble endeavor and contribute towards the enrichment of our democratic fabric.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Gulzar Ahmad; Deputy District Election Officer, SDM Kangan, Chief Education Officer and other district officers.
LS Elections 2024: SVEEP Awareness Prog empowers Women Voters at G’bal
Ganderbal: Government High School Gutlibagh on Thursday hosted a significant event aimed at enhancing voter awareness and participation through the SVEEP programme, and a rally of local Pakthoon women folk.
Led by the Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) 18-Ganderbal and the Nodal Officer SVEEP Ganderbal, the programme prioritised engaging women voters from the Pakthoon community, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping democratic processes.
During the event, key stakeholders engaged in insightful interactions with women voters, highlighting the importance of their active participation in elections.
ARO 18-Ganderbal and the Nodal Officer SVEEP Ganderbal underscored the significance of women’s voices in shaping the nation’s future, encouraging them to exercise their electoral rights with confidence and conviction.
The programme also featured discussions led by District Level Master Trainers (DLMTs) on the modern democracy’s reliance on women’s voting rights.
Their deliberations aimed to inspire and empower women, recognizing their indispensable role in fostering inclusive and participatory democratic practices.
The event witnessed a diverse turnout, including Booth Level Officers (BLOs), female teachers, (AAYAs), BAGs and girl students, showcasing a collective commitment to nurturing informed and engaged citizenry.
LS Elections 2024: Voters Awareness Prog under SVEEP held at Gutlibagh
Ganderbal: A mega voters awareness programme was on Thursday organized at Gutlibagh, here under the aegis of Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) campaign.
The awareness programme was aimed to raise awareness about voting-related activities and promote electoral literacy among citizens, especially first-time voters in run up to the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections, 2024.
The program was presided over by the ACR Ganderbal (ARO 18-Ganderbal) who, on the occasion highlighted the significance of electoral literacy in empowering citizens and urged everyone, especially first-time voters, to exercise their franchise responsibly in the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, a pledge taking ceremony under SVEEP was also held to vote enthusiastically in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.