Pulwama: BrajeshNarain Singh, the General Observer for Assembly Constituency Tralon Tuesday conducted a comprehensive visit to various locations within the constituency to assess the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
As part of his visit, the General Observer held multiple interactive sessions with the general public, emphasizing the significance of adhering to the MCC and the role of citizens in ensuring free and fair elections.
In addition to these engagements, Singh inspected several polling stations including Lariyar, Buchoo, Saimoh, Rathsuna and Pinglish, to evaluate the basic facilities available for voters. His focus was on ensuring that the polling stations are well-prepared to accommodate voters and facilitate a smooth electoral process.
Moreover, the General Observer also visited various schools within the constituency, where he conducted interactive sessions with children. These sessions aimed to raise awareness among the younger generation about the democratic process and their future roles as responsible citizens.
The General Observer’s visit underscores the commitment to maintaining a transparent and inclusive electoral process in the Tral Assembly Constituency.
EO Pulwama holds meeting with Candidates, their Representatives, Representatives of Political Parties
Pulwama: The Expenditure Observer (EO) for Pulwama, Srikanth N convened a crucial meeting with candidates, their representatives and representatives of various political parties at the District Administrative Complex in Pulwama, on Tuesday.
During the meeting, the Expenditure Observer emphasized the importance of adhering to the expenditure guidelines laid down by the Election Commission of India. He urged all candidates and political parties to maintain transparency in their campaign finances and ensure compliance with the prescribed limits.
The discussions also covered the procedures for submitting expenditure reports and the measures in place to monitor and regulate election spending. The Expenditure Observer assured the representatives that all efforts would be made to ensure a level playing field for all candidates and parties.
This meeting is part of the ongoing efforts to promote fair and transparent elections in the Pulwama district.
General Observer for Pampore AC visits Polling Stations, assesses preparedness
Pulwama: VadarevuVinay Chand, the General Observer for Pampore Assembly Constituency (AC) on Tuesday conducted a visit to various polling stations across Pampore to assess the preparedness and ensure that all necessary facilities are in place for the upcoming elections.
During his visit, the General Observer reviewed the arrangements at the polling stations, focusing on the availability of basic amenities, accessibility and overall readiness to handle voters on Election Day. His inspection underscores the commitment to ensuring a smooth and efficient electoral process in the Pampore Assembly Constituency.
The visit is in line with the Election Commission of India’s guidelines to ensure free, fair and well-managed elections.
Rajouri: DEO discusses critical matters with Political Reps; Reviews Election preparations
Rajouri: District Election Officer (DEO) RajouriAbhishek Sharma on Tuesday chaired a comprehensive interaction on election matters with Political representatives, besides reviewing general preparations in a meeting with nodal officers.
The DEO conducted an in-depth review of several key areas crucial for the smooth conduct of the elections, including expenditure management, Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF), postal ballots, electoral rolls, and adherence to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The meeting also covered the status of seizures made till date.
A significant focus was placed on vulnerability mapping, with 518 hamlets identified as sensitive. The DEO directed the nodal officers to finalize the transportation and communication plans, emphasizing the importance of identifying shadow areas where communication is challenging so that stringers can be effectively deployed.
The training of election officials was another critical area of discussion. The DEO noted that the second round of training is currently underway in the three Assembly Constituencies (ACs) and stressed the need for thorough training, particularly for male, female, and Persons with Disabilities (PWD) officials.
The deployment of security forces and the status of the complaint redressal mechanism were also reviewed. The DEO emphasized the importance of training officials on the use of the C-Vigil app, the Flying Squad Teams (FST), and the process of granting permissions through the ENCORE app. He instructed that all political party representatives must be adequately trained on these processes.
Further discussions covered the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the strong room arrangements, barricading of the counting hall, and ensuring lease line connectivity and power backup for counting day arrangements.
Later, he convened a crucial meeting with representatives of political parties to discuss the guidelines and preparations for the upcoming Assembly Elections 2024. The meeting focused on ensuring a fair and peaceful election process across the district.
The DEO urged political representatives to avoid holding political meetings or rallies without prior permission from the competent authority. He assured the representatives that the security of candidates and political parties will be meticulously managed once the necessary permissions are granted.
In line with the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) directives, the DEO highlighted that all candidates must finance their election expenses exclusively from their official bank accounts. Additionally, no candidate is permitted to use cash exceeding ₹10,000 throughout the entire election period. “Candidates with criminal antecedents are required to publish their backgrounds in newspapers thrice during the campaign” he added.
The DEO also reiterated the ECI’s commitment to ensuring a level playing field to all Political parties. He urged against the dissemination of false or fake complaints and cautioned against forwarding unverified or provocative content that could incite enmity among different sections of society. Strict action will be taken against those involved in hate speech, fake news, or misinformation.
Representatives from the political parties present at the meeting expressed their views and unanimously assured that they would fully comply with the directions issued by the Election Commission of India.
The meeting was also attended by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Raj Kumar Thapa, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) SanjeevKhajuria, Deputy District Election Officer (Dy DEO) Shakeel Malik, Chief Planning Officer (CPO) Maqsood Ahmed, and representatives from all political parties.
General Observer reviews election preparations in Bhaderwah
Bhaderwah: General Observer Malikarjuna A overseeing Assembly Constituency (AC) 51-Bhadarwah, on Tuesday convened an online meeting to review the functioning of various teams constituted for the upcoming elections in AC 51 Bhaderwah.
The meeting was attended by key teams, including the Flying Squad Team, the Video Surveillance Team, and the Static Surveillance Team.
During the meeting, the heads of these teams were asked to provide detailed briefings on their preparedness and operational strategies.
Malikarjuna emphasized the importance of transparent and effective conduct of duties, urging the teams to ensure that all actions are in compliance with election guidelines. He also outlined specific areas where improvements were needed, particularly in coordination and timely reporting.
Among the other attendees were Nodal Officer for the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) Pran Singh, Returning Officer for AC-51 Bhadarwah Sunil Kumar, ASP Vinod Sharma and TehsildarBhaderwah, who is also the Liaison Officer to the Observer.
The Nodal officer MCMC provided additional instructions to the teams, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to election protocols and efficient handling of media-related matters.
The Observer reiterated the importance of teamwork and encouraged all teams to collaborate closely to address any challenges. He stressed that all queries and uncertainties must be resolved promptly to ensure a smooth election process. The meeting concluded with the teams being reminded of their crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the election process and upholding democratic values.
Doda: General Observer conducts comprehensive inspection of Polling Stations in Bhagwah, Dessa
Doda: To ensure smooth conduct of the upcoming Assembly Elections-2024, the General Observer for Assembly Constituency (AC) 52-Doda and AC 53-Doda West, AdityaNegi, conducted a thorough inspection of the polling stations at Bhagwah and Dessa of Doda District on Tuesday.
During the inspection, AdityaNegi assessed the preparedness of the polling stations and reviewed the arrangements put in place for voters.
The visit was aimed at ensuring that all necessary facilities and security measures are in place to facilitate a fair and transparent election process.
In addition to the inspection of polling stations, the Observer evaluated the functioning of the Flying Squad teams operating in the Bhagwah and Dessa. The squads, which play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the election process, were reviewed for their readiness and effectiveness in addressing any election-related issues.
The Observer was accompanied by Assistant Returning Officer (ARO), Dr. Subuh Ahmed Shad, besides police and other election staff.
The General Observer emphasized the importance of maintaining the highest standards of election conduct and reiterated the commitment of the ECI to ensuring a free and fair electoral process in Doda District.
Election Observers inspect polling stations; review working of FST, SST Teams in AC-54 Ramban
Ramban: To ensure free, fair, and transparent elections in District Ramban, General Observer Himanshu Kumar Rai, along with Police Observer KunalAggarwal and Expenditure Observer Sulekh Chand Jain, conducted comprehensive review of enforcement teams and polling stations in Assembly Constituency -54 Rambanon Tuesday.
The Observers reviewed the functioning of the Flying Squad Teams (FSTs), Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs), and other enforcement units deployed at different locations within the constituency, including Nashri. During their visit, they closely examined the security arrangements and operational efficiency of the FST and SST tea The Observers interacted with team members, providing essential guidance to ensure proper monitoring of all activities for a smooth election process.
In addition to inspecting the enforcement teams, the Observers visited several polling stations established in various government buildings, such as High School Chanderkote, UPS Chanderkote, High School Dhalwas, GPS Champa, GGHS Batote, DFO Office Batote, UPS Tringla, and GMS Ladhwal. At each location, they assessed the polling arrangements and inquired about the availability of Assured Minimum Facilities, with a particular focus on the convenience of elderly voters, women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). On-the-spot instructions were issued to the concerned officers to address any deficiencies and ensure a voter-friendly environment.
At Batote, the Observers also interacted with Deputy Inspector General of Police, DKR Range, ShridharPatil.
The Observers were accompanied by ARO Deep Kumar, TehsildarBatote Vijay Kumar, and other relevant officials throughout the inspection.
DEO reviews preparations ahead of election notification for Kathua Distt
Kathua: District Election Officer, Kathua Dr. Rakesh Minhas, on Tuesday chaired a meeting with Returning Officers (ROs) and Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) to discuss various critical aspects related to the Assembly elections-2024 in the District.
Dr. Minhas engaged in detailed deliberations on essential election procedures, beginning with the issuance of the Election Notification, followed by the processes of nomination, scrutiny, withdrawal of candidatures, and the allotment of symbols. He emphasized the importance of strictly adhering to the guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India (ECI) and following the procedures outlined in the RO handbook, along with the regular advisories issued by the Election Department.
The DEO impressed upon the designated officers the necessity of ensuring all required measures are in place, including the security of the RO and ARO offices. He further stressed the importance of maintaining the decorum and integrity of the election process in both letter and spirit.
To enhance understanding of the election procedures, a mock drill of the complete nomination process was conducted, providing officers with hands-on experience and reinforcing their preparedness for the upcoming elections.
DEO Kathua reviews poll preparations
Kathua: District Election Officer Kathua, Dr. RakeshMinhason Tuesday chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the readiness for the upcoming Assembly Elections 2024. The meeting involved key officers from Assembly Constituencies 63 Bani, 64 Billawar, 65 Basohli, 66 Jasrota, 67 Kathua, and 68 Hiranagar.
Returning Officers (ROs), Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) from each constituency, Zonal Magistrates, Sector Magistrates, and police officers were present on the occasion.
The DEO underscored the importance of maintaining stringent security for Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) throughout the election process.
Dr. Minhas also highlighted the necessity of coordinated efforts to facilitate home voting for physically disabled and elderly voters, ensuring inclusivity in the electoral process.
Continuous communication with concerned RO office was emphasized as essential to swiftly address any issues or requirements that may arise.
The meeting involved in-depth discussions on the proper coordination and timing for the dispatch of polling materials, EVMs, and polling parties to ensure a smooth and efficient polling day. The DEO reiterated the importance of promptly reporting voter turnout and maintaining vigilance over EVMs during their transportation and storage.
Overall, the focus remained on ensuring seamless collaboration among all stakeholders, adherence to the election schedule, and the secure handling of all election-related materials to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
DM B’la chairs Distt Level NCORD meeting
Baramulla: The District Magistrate (DM) Baramulla Tuesday chaired 14th District Level Narco Coordination (NCORD) Committee meeting at DakbanglowBaramulla to discuss strategies aimed at combating drug abuse in the district.
The primary objective of the meeting was to strengthen inter-departmental coordination and implement effective measures to curb the drug menace.
During the meeting, the DM stressed the need for a collaborative approach to tackle the issue, with an emphasis on youth engagement.
Additionally, the DM directed the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and AD Drug Controller to ensure that all pharmacies in the district adopt computerized billing systems to improve transparency and compliance with drug-related regulations.
The DM also directed the Chief Medical Officer to ensure the operational status of the drug de-addiction center at Sopore. He emphasized the need for the center to be fully functional and accessible, providing critical services to those battling substance abuse in the region.
To spread public awareness, the ARTO was tasked with placing stickers on all commercial vehicles, promoting the message of drug prevention and raising awareness among the general public.
The meeting was attended by ADDC Baramulla, Syed QamarSajad; Principal GMC, Prof Ruby Reshi; Additional Deputy Commissioner Sopore, S A.Raina; Additional Superintendent of Police Sopore, Mir Murtaza; SDM Gulmarg, Syed AltafMusvi; DSWO, Chief Medical Officer Baramulla, ARTO, Dy SP HQ Baramulla and other concerned officers.
DEO G’bal reviews preparations for AMF at polling stations
Ganderbal: As part of the preparations for the Assembly Elections 2024, the District Election Officer (DEO) Ganderbal, Shyambiron Tuesday chaired a meeting to assess the status of Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) at all polling stations within the district.
At the outset, the DEO reviewed the current status of AMF at polling stations including seating arrangements considering weather conditions and overall infrastructure readiness.
Key issues discussed and actions planned during the meeting included ensuring Assured Minimum Facilities at all polling stations like ramps, electricity, toilet facility, water supply, wheelchairs, furniture and sanitation to be kept in place to facilitate accessible and inclusive elections.
The Nodal Officer for AMF was directed to ensure that all necessary facilities are in place well before polling day and Polling stations should prominently display basic information to assist voters. Additionally, special polling stations will be set up, including Women, PwD, Youth Manned, Green, Unique and Model Polling Stations, each manned and supervised by designated officers.
He emphasized the need for polling stations to be accessible, particularly for women, elderly voters, and persons with special abilities, ensuring that no one is left behind in the electoral process.
The DEO urged all involved officials to prioritize these preparations, ensuring that the electoral process is conducted smoothly and efficiently in the district.
The meeting was attended by DyDEO, AbidIqbal Malik; Assistant Commissioner Development, Dr. Bashir Ahmad; Executive Engineer KDPCL, CEO and other officials.
B’pora Admin provides Training to Micro Observers
Bandipora: In preparation to the upcoming Assembly Elections-2024, the Bandipora Administration on Tuesday organized a comprehensive one-day training session for micro observers at the Mini-Secretariat Bandipora.
The training was provided by District Level Master Trainer (DLMT) MohdIqbalSamoon.
During the session, participants were briefed on various polling procedures and their specific roles and responsibilities as micro observers to ensure a smooth and transparent electoral process.
The DLMT on the occasion emphasised the commitment to uphold the integrity of electoral process and equipping poll staff with the necessary skills and knowledge for the successful conduct of the elections.
