DEO directs meticulous poll activities to facilitate a smooth electoral process
Bandipora: The District Election Officer (DEO) Bandipora on Wednesday convened a review meeting at the Mini Secretariat, here to evaluate the poll preparedness for the upcoming assembly elections in the district.
During the meeting, the DEO assessed preparations Assembly Constituency (AC) wise, receiving feedback from nodal officers on key elements, including welfare provisions, training, status of AC-level strong rooms, transport logistics, and SVEEP activities. The meeting also discussed counting arrangements, material management, and the functionality of the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) and control room.
Returning Officers (ROs) of the three assembly constituencies’ 14-Sonawari, 15-Bandipora and 16-Gurez provided detailed updates on the publication of notifications and the establishment of facilitation centres. They assured that staff training and readiness for nomination procedures are on track, underscoring their commitment to a seamless election process.
They apprised the chair that their teams are fully prepared to manage the election-related activities, and that all procedural requirements are met efficiently.
The DEO emphasized the importance of robust preparation, stating, “Our goal is to ensure that all election-related processes are streamlined and held in an efficient manner.” He stressed the meticulous handling of all poll activities to facilitate a smooth electoral process.
Qadri on the occasion highlighted the importance of coordination among various teams and stated that effective communication and collaboration between all stakeholders are essential for the successful conduct of the elections. Besides, he stressed on the need to address issues promptly to maintain the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process.
Among others, the meeting was attended by ADDC/Nodal Officer Law & Order Mohammad Ashraf Bhatt, ADC/Nodal Officer MCC ZaffarHussonShawal, ROs of the three Assembly Constituencies, Nodal Officers, AROs, and other concerned officials.
J&K Assembly Polls: DEO Pulwama chairs comprehensive meeting with ROs & Nodal Officers
Pulwama: The District Election Officer (DEO) Pulwama, Dr. BasharatQayoom Wednesday chaired a comprehensive review meeting with the Returning Officers (ROs) and Nodal Officers to review the ongoing election preparedness across the district.
The meeting, held in a hybrid mode with the participation of RO Pampore and Tral virtually, focused on various crucial aspects, including timelines, compliance measures and the commissioning of election processes.
The Returning Officers of all 4 assembly constituencies provided detailed account of preparations including timelines for the commissioning and preparation of EVMs, distribution of Voter Information Slips and Voter Guides preparation for Home voting and Postal Voting for categories of electors as provided in ECI guidelines.
DrBasharat emphasized the importance of home voting facility for senior citizens above the age of 85 years and PWD with Benchmark Disability of 40% and above who choose to cast their votes from home.
The DEO directed ROs and Nodal officer to ensure compliance of ECI directives with respect to secrecy of voting and other important aspects including proper training to poll Parties, security and timely intimation to candidates for nominating their agents and representatives about date time and list of electors who choose for home voting.
For Voter Information Slips (VIS) and Voter Guides, the DEO directed ROs to complete the process of Distribution of VIS/ Voter Guides as mandated by ECI guidelines at least 5 clear days before the date of poll. He also asked ROs to cross verify distribution through AROs and supervisors and also verify themselves so that 100% distribution of VIS is ensured in time.
Each Nodal officer was asked to present the status of preparations with respect to the tasks assigned to them. Nodal Officer EVM/ Strong room Counting Hall informed that all preparations are in place for Commissioning and Counting Halls preparation is in its final stages.
The DEO directed Nodal Officer and all ROs to visit their respective counting halls and ensure each Counting Hall is completed in strict adherence to ECI guidelines.
Nodal officer MCC presented the details to permissions issued for various campaign activities to candidates and cases of violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) wherein notices have been issued to violators.
DEO directed Nodal Officer MCC for immediate action against any violations of MCC under rules and wide publicity of C-Vigil platform where citizens can report MCC violations in real time.
Nodal Officer Welfare informed that Special provisions have been made across all polling stations for PWD voters.
For voter awareness, DEO directed Nodal officers SVEEP to intensify SVEEP activities, and ensure multiple SVEEP events are conducted across all 4 Assembly Constituencies on daily basis with the aim of reaching out to all electors in the district and ensuring their participation in the electoral process for an inclusive free and fair election process.
The DEO concluded the meeting by reiterating the importance of strict adherence to timelines and procedures to ensure a free, fair and transparent election process in Pulwama.
DEO Kishtwar reviews logistics preparedness
Kishtwar: District Election Officer (DEO) Kishtwar Rajesh Kumar Shavan chaired a meeting of designated Nodal Officers in Conference Hall of the DC Office Complex here on Wednesday to review the Polling Day arrangements scheduled on 18th September 2024 – the first phase of the Assembly Election 2024.
SSP Abdul Qayoom, ROof 49-Kishtwar PawanKotwal, RO 48-Inderwal Idrees Lone and RO 50-Paddar NagseniAmit Kumar besides Nodal officers were present in the meeting.
At the outset, the DEO took a firsthand appraisal from all designated Nodal Officers with regard to tasks assigned to them for conduct of Assembly Elections-2024 in the district.
The DEO reviewed the preparations being made by the Nodal Officers related to key aspects of the Assembly Elections including Man Power Management, Traffic Plan, Communication Plan, Transportation of Polling staff/Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), implementation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC), Material Management, Collection & Distribution Counters, Intermediate strong rooms, AMF and Webcasting of Polling stations, Training programmes, SVEEP activities, functioning of Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC), Expenditure Monitoring Cell and Integrating Election Control Room and other related activities aimed at ensuring smooth and peaceful general elections in the District.
The DEO directed the designated Nodal Officers to work with due diligence and dedication to ensure smooth, free and fair elections. He expressed confidence in the collective resolve and capability of the Nodal Officers to fulfill their role effectively and efficiently, thereby contributing to the successful conduct of the Assembly Elections-2024 in Kishtwar.
The DEO asked the Returning Officers (ROs) of the 3 Assembly Constituencies to ensure logistics and security arrangements including the technological interventions/ upgradation well in advance.
Earlier, the DEO was briefed by all the designated Nodal Officers about the preparations made so far for Assembly Elections-2024.
J&K Assembly Polls: Poonch ensures Easy Voting Access to 3,536 persons with disabilities
Poonch: To ensure maximum voter turnout and inclusivity in the upcoming Assembly elections, District Election Officer PoonchVikasKundal chaired an important meeting on Wednesday to review and finalize arrangements to facilitate the voting process for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The District Election Officer (DEO) emphasized the importance of creating a hassle-free and accessible environment for all voters.
It was highlighted that the Poonch district has a total of 3,536 voters identified as Persons with Disabilities. In light of this, the election authorities have made comprehensive arrangements at polling stations in all three assembly constituencies of Surankote, Poonch, and Mendhar across the border district. These facilities include the installation of ramps for easy access, provision of wheelchairs, and other necessary measures to accommodate the needs of PwD voters, ensuring that they can exercise their right to vote without any hurdle.
In a move to inspire and encourage voter participation among PwDs, some prominent Persons with Disabilities have been appointed as icons and ambassadors whose role is to motivate and empower fellow PwD voters, demonstrating that every vote counts and every individual has a voice in the democratic process.
It is pertinent to mention here that as per these guidelines, PwD voters who are unable to visit polling stations due to severe disabilities will be provided the option of home voting. Election officials will visit their homes to facilitate this process, ensuring that every eligible voter can cast their vote.
The DEO emphasized the importance of the measures, stating, “Our objective is to ensure 100% voting participation, particularly among Persons with Disabilities. It is our responsibility to provide an inclusive and accessible voting environment for every eligible voter in the district.”
To further reinforce the efforts, the DEO issued directives to the Returning Officers (ROs) and Chief Education officer Poonch (Nodal Officer SVEEP) to make sure that all facilities are in place which will guarantee a seamless voting experience on the day of the election.
MoulviFareed, A prominent icon for Persons with Disabilities lauded the District Election Authorities during the meeting, praising their commitment to inclusivity. He states that the authorities’ focused efforts have not only inspired PwD voters but also instilled a strong sense of responsibility and empowerment, affirming their vital role and rights in the democratic process.
J&K Assembly Polls: DEO Kathua briefs media on election process in Kathua Distt
Kathua: District Election Officer (DEO) Dr. RakeshMinhason Wednesday briefed the media regarding the upcoming election process in the Kathua District, set to commence on 5th September 2024 with the issuance of the Election Notification for all its six assembly segments.
Dr. Minhas explained that the nomination filing process will begin with the issuance of notifications by the respective Returning Officers (ROs).
The window for accepting nominations will be open from 5th to 12th September, excluding government holidays.
“Candidates are encouraged to visit the offices of the relevant ROs to submit their nominations, adhering strictly to the guidelines set by the Election Commission of India (ECI)” he added.
The scrutiny of the nominations will take place on 13th September, and candidates can withdraw their nominations till 17th September.
The DEO provided an overview of the District Election Profile, highlighting that Kathua comprises six assembly segments: 63-Bani, 64-Billawar, 65-Basohli, 66-Jasrota, 67-Kathua (SC), and 68-Hiranagar. The total number of electors across these segments is 502,978, including 57,999 in 63-Bani AC, (30,751 Male, 27,247 Female, 1 Third Gender; 94,651in 64-Billawar AC, (49,500 Male, 45,151 Female); 69,282 in 65-Basohli AC (36,343 Male, 32,937 Female, 2 Third Gender); 86,753 in 66-Jasrota AC (45,355 Male, 41,398 Female); 108,666 in 67-Kathua (SC) (57,090 Male, 51,576 Female); 87,939 in 68-Hiranagar AC (45,781 Male, 42,158 Female).
To ensure safe and secure electoral environment, Dr. Minhas assured that sufficient security personnel will be deployed across all segments of the district.
For the smooth conduct of the polling process, a total of 704 polling stations have been established, including 36 special polling stations tailored for various groups—namely Pink, Youth, PwD-manned, Green, Unique, Model, and Along Border polling stations—each located within their respective assembly constituencies.
This initiative aims to make the election process more inclusive and participative, in line with ECI guidelines.
The DEO also informed that the provision of Home Voting for 85 plus age voters is provisioned for which voters can apply to cast their vote on 20 and 21st September 2024 with the help of our Polling teams while maintaining the secrecy of voting.
The DEO also briefed the media about the District SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) plan, designed to raise awareness about the value of voting and its role in selecting representatives of the people’s choice. He urged the citizens of Kathua to come out in large numbers to exercise their right to vote and actively participate in this essential democratic process.
Dr. Minhas called on media personnel to play a pivotal role in disseminating the message of SVEEP through the intensive campaigns being conducted by the Nodal Officers across all six assembly constituencies.
Pertinently, the Kathua District is slated to go for polls on October 01st 2024 under phase iii of the Assembly Elections-2024.
Restructured ICCC aims for seamless elections at Shopian
Shopian: In order to ensure seamless election related coordination among authorities and hassle free provision of permissions for campaigning/ advertising/ complaint register etc, the District Election Officer (DEO) Shopian has re-structured the Integrated Command & Control Centre (ICCC) in the district.
The district level control centre, which earlier functioned from Room No 231/B2 has been shifted to 3rd floor, Meeting Hall located at Mini Secretariat, Shopian.
With the restructuring of ICCC, it has been strengthened by way of additional logistics and manpower enhancements in order to dispose-off election related issues promptly.
The facility houses Encore team for permission of election campaigning; MCMC for granting pre-certification of political advertisements and watching paid news issues; C- Vigil for complaint registering of MCC and other grievances; Call Centre for coordinating among authorities for election management; CCTV Monitoring Team for monitoring movement at SST nakas, and Video Viewing Teams to look for expenditure related activities.
The functioning of ICCC under one roof is a significant step in the direction of effective execution of election matters.
Returning Officer convenes meeting with Political representatives in Basohli
Kathua: Returning Officer Anil Kumar Thakur (Additional Deputy Commissioner Basohli) on Wednesday chaired a meeting of representatives of political parties.
SDPO Suresh Sharma, ARO BasohliSagarVishwakarma (Tehsildar), CDPO Rakesh Kumar and Sub Inspector AbhinavKotwal were also present.
The Returning Officer provided crucial information regarding the upcoming election schedule. He announced that the notification for filing nomination papers will be issued on 5 September, with the deadline for submission set for 12 September.
It was given out in the meeting that candidates can file their nomination papers at the Returning Officer’s office from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
The scrutiny of nominations will take place on 13 September, and the final date for withdrawal of nominations is 17 September.
The Returning Officer detailed the process for submitting nomination papers, emphasizing the importance of completing all required formalities. He also highlighted the necessity for candidates to open a new bank account dedicated to election expenses. The officer further elaborated on different grounds for the cancellation of nominations and urged all parties to adhere strictly to the guidelines issued by the Election Commission. He warned that any violation of the Model Code of Conduct by a political party or independent candidate would result in legal action. Additionally, he stated that no political activities are allowed within 100 meters of the Returning Officer’s office.
A help desk has been established in the Returning Officer’s office to assist candidates with the nomination process and related formalities.
The Returning Officer also emphasized the importance of voter participation under the SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) program, urging citizens to fulfill their civic duty by voting in the upcoming assembly election. He called on all citizens to partake in this vital democratic process and help ensure a high voter turnout.
SDPO Suresh Sharma appealed to all party representatives to cooperate in maintaining law and order in the Basohli constituency.
