Doda: In preparation for the upcoming Assembly Election-2024, District Election Officer (DEO) Doda, Harvinder Singh, conducted an inspection of the National Highway in Assar area the other day.
The inspection focused on assessing the condition of the road, which plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth and uninterrupted transportation during the election period.
During the inspection, the DEO Doda emphasized the importance of regular maintenance the National Highway to facilitate the movement of election personnel, materials, and voters. He directed the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to carry out necessary maintenance work on the Bagger to Thathri (Doda) stretch of the highway without delay.
Harvinder Singh reiterated that a well-maintained road network is essential for the efficient conduct of the electoral process. He urged the NHIDCL to prioritize the repair and upkeep of the highway to avoid any disruptions during the election period.
DEO Poonch reinforces vigilance and preparedness for upcoming elections
Poonch: To further bolster the preparedness and operational efficiency of the Static Surveillance Teams (SST), Flying Surveillance Teams (FST), Video Surveillance Teams (VST) and Excise and Taxation Teams in the lead-up to the forthcoming elections, District Election Officer PoonchVikasKundal chaired a comprehensive meeting on Saturday in the office of District Development Commissioner. The primary objective of the session was to reinforce the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) stringent guidelines regarding the monitoring of election activities and the strict enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
During the meeting DEO Poonch articulated the critical importance of the SST’s role in ensuring a free and fair electoral process. He emphasized that the SST functions as the frontline defence, tasked with preventing any financial or material irregularities that could potentially jeopardize the integrity of the elections. Highlighting the significance of their responsibilities he instructed the team to conduct exhaustive inspections of all vehicles without exception, stressing the necessity of meticulous scrutiny. The District Election Officer made it clear that any suspicious cash, illegal distribution of alcohol and other excise-controlled substance and unaccounted/illicit materials found must be promptly seized to prevent undue influence on the election process.
He further underscored the imperative that all SST members be thoroughly acquainted with the monitoring and enforcement mechanisms in place. He insisted on the necessity for strict and unwavering adherence to the MCC stressing that such compliance is essential for maintaining the credibility and fairness of the electoral process. The District Election Officer also drew attention to the broader responsibilities of the SST, which not only include vehicle inspections but also encompass a wider range of surveillance activities aimed at identifying and mitigating any potential violations of the MCC.
During conclusion of the meeting, he reiterated the crucial importance of professionalism, vigilance and diligence among the team members. He assured them that the district administration would provide full support and resources throughout the election period addressing any queries or concerns that might arise. The District Election Officer’s emphasis on collaboration and adherence to ECI guidelines underscores the administration’s commitment to conducting elections in Poonch that are not only free and fair but also transparent and reflective of democratic values.
General Observer inspects Polling Stations at Kastigarh
Doda: General Observer AdityaNegi, overseeing Assembly Constituency (AC) 52-Doda and 53-Doda West, on Saturday conducted an inspection of polling stations in the Kastigarh area of the District. The visit was part of the preparations for the first phase of the General Assembly to Legislative Elections-2024.
The General Observer was accompanied by the Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) Dr. Subuh Ahmed Shad and ARO PushpakSaroof, along with a team of election officials.
During the visit, the team reviewed the facilities available at the polling stations, focusing on accessibility, security, and the overall preparedness to handle the voting process efficiently. The General Observer also interacted with the staff to discuss any challenges and ensure that all protocols are followed to facilitate a free and fair election.
General Observer Negi emphasized the importance of a transparent and fair election process, urging all Officers and officials to prioritize voter safety and accessibility.
DC reviews security situation in border areas of Samba
Samba : To address the challenges faced by communities and security forces along the International Border, Deputy Commissioner Samba, Rajesh Sharma, chaired a crucial border security meeting on Saturday here in the DC Office Complex, Nandani Hills.
The meeting focused on enhancing coordination between the civil administration and security forces while addressing key issues impacting the public and the forces in the border areas.
The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the importance of public participation in the upcoming Assembly elections and urged officers to intensify voter awareness initiatives to ensure maximum turnout.
The Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for heightened vigilance in the border regions. He asked stakeholders to encourage Farmers to report any suspicious activities, such as drone sightings or tunnel discoveries. To further incentivize such vigilance, reward schemes for reporting suspicious activities were discussed as part of the broader security strategy.
The high-level meeting was attended by senior officials, including SSP Samba, Vinay Kumar; ADC Samba, Jagdish Singh; key representatives from the Border Security Force (BSF), including the 2IC and Deputy Commandant; ACR Samba, KusumChib; SDM Gaghwal; SDM Vijaypur; and other district officials.
Expenditure Observer inspects RO Office, Election Control Room in AC Banihal
Ramban: The Expenditure Observer for District Ramban, Sulekh Chand Jain, conducted a comprehensive visit to Assembly Constituency (AC)-55 Banihal on Saturday. He inspected the Returning Officer (RO) office and the 24×7 Election Control Room as part of ongoing efforts to ensure transparent and effective monitoring of the election process for the General Election Legislative Assembly 2024.
During his visit, the Expenditure Observer reviewed the operations of the Election Control Room, which is equipped with modern facilities for continuous monitoring of election activities. He engaged with the officials on duty, discussing key aspects of expenditure tracking and the implementation of Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines.
The Observer emphasized the importance of meticulous record-keeping and timely reporting of all election-related expenditures to prevent any violations of the Model Code of Conduct. He commended the RO office for its preparedness and the proactive steps taken to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process in AC-55.
In a meeting with the concerned officers, the Expenditure Observer issued necessary directions to ensure the electoral process is closely monitored, providing a level playing field for all candidates and ensuring free and fair elections.
Returning Officer AC-55 Banihal, RizwanAsgar, apprised the Expenditure Observer of the election arrangements, assuring full compliance with all election guidelines and regulations. He reiterated the commitment of the RO office and the Election Control Room to ensuring a smooth and transparent election process in the constituency.
Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) Imtiaz Ahmed and various concerned officers were present on the occasion.
NCORD meeting held at Samba
Samba: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Samba, Rajesh Sharma on Saturday chaired a District Level Committee meeting of NCORD here in the DC Office Complex,
The meeting focused on reviewing the actions taken since the last meeting by various departments, including the concerned SDMs, the Education Department, the Department of Youth Services and Sports, and the Drug Control Department, to curb the menace of drug abuse in the district.
The meeting was attended by key district officers, including the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Chief Education Officer (CEO), Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO), Chief Animal Husbandry Officer (CAHO), District Information Officer (DIO), and representatives from law enforcement agencies.
First Randomization of Polling Personnel held at B’gam
Budgam: The first Randomization of Polling Staff to be deployed across 639 Polling Stations for 5-Assembly Constituencies of District Budgam was done here in DC office Budgam.
The Randomization process was held under the supervision of District Election Officer (DEO) Budgam, AkshayLabroo in presence of the concerned Officers.
The Randomization process was conducted through a dedicated Software as per the prescribed guidelines of Election Commission of India (ECI) .
The District Election Officer emphasized the importance of impartiality and efficiency in conducting the elections, with the randomization of polling personnel being an important step towards achieving these objectives
Returning officers of all 5- Assembly constituencies, Deputy District Election Officer Budgam, Shakeel Ahmad, concerned Nodal Officers, and other concerned were present in the meeting.
Training session for Political Candidates held at Pulwama
Pulwama: In preparation for the upcoming Legislative Assembly elections, a comprehensive training session for political candidates was conducted on Saturday at District Administrative Complex, Pulwama.
The session was led by a team of experienced Master Trainers who provided essential guidance on the electoral process, compliance with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and other crucial aspects of campaigning.
The training was attended by candidates and their representatives from various political parties contesting in the Assembly Constituencies across the district. The objective of the session was to ensure that all candidates are well-versed with the electoral guidelines and are equipped to conduct their campaigns in a fair, transparent and lawful manner.
Key topics covered during the training included expenditure limits, guidelines on electioneering and the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the electoral process. Special emphasis was placed on adherence to the Model Code of Conduct, with trainers underscoring the significance of following ethical practices during the campaign period.
Additionally, the Nodal Officer for MCC provided detailed instructions on the critical aspects of the Model Code of Conduct, highlighting the importance of maintaining decorum and fairness throughout the election period. The Nodal Officer for Expenditure also briefed the candidates on the financial regulations governing campaign expenditure, underscoring the need for transparency and accurate reporting.
The training session also featured interactive discussions, where candidates had the opportunity to seek clarifications on various election-related matters. The Master Trainers provided detailed responses, ensuring that all queries were addressed comprehensively.
The district administration reiterated its commitment to facilitating free, fair, and transparent elections and urged all political candidates to strictly adhere to the guidelines provided during the training.
