- Also participates in SVEEP campaign
KISHTWAR: With an aim to ensure the free, fair, transparent and smooth conduct of Assembly Elections in the district, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Pandurang K Pole today visited Kishtwar, where he chaired a meeting with Nodal officers at Mini Secretariat to review overall Election preparedness for 48-Inderwal, 49-Kishtwar and 50-Paddar-Nagseni Assembly Constituencies of the district.
District Election Officer (DEO) Kishtwar Rajesh Kumar Shavan; Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kishtwar Abdul Qayoom; Additional Secretary Sandish Gupta; Returning Officers of all Assembly Constituencies; Deputy District Election Officer, Idrees Lone and the Nodal Officers monitoring/ overseeing election related activities also attended the meeting.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on key aspects of election management, including manpower deployment, EVM randomization and transportation, polling staff arrangements, strong rooms, security protocols, functioning of Control Room and other arrangements for smooth conduct of elections.
The DEO through PPT presentation provided an overview of District Election Profile including electorate count, number of polling stations and polling locations, model polling stations, home voting facilities, SVEEP activities and the district’s election management.
Addressing the officers in the meeting, the CEO said that the aim of the visit is to see that there is no deficiency of any kind and to redress deficits at an earliest to make the electoral process successful.
He emphasized on the continuation of SVEEP initiatives to educate and engage voters effectively and urged all stakeholders to maximize voter turnout through door- to-door campaigns by roping in the BAGs, BLOs, AWWs, Teachers, Youths and Students of Colleges and Schools under SVEEP initiative.
The CEO instructed for widespread publicity of all SVEEP programs and prepare engaging social media contents by Youth Icons and other media influencers of society to ensure maximum voter awareness.
He also stressed for distribution of voter slips among the voters by using the services of BLOs, so that everyone is able to cast his/her vote on the poll day.
The CEO also emphasized on transparency measures for home voting for the elderly and disabled. He also asked all stakeholders that plantation drives shall be organised at all polling stations of the district on scheduled dates, expressing the significance of environmental responsibility.
The DEO apprised the CEO that with an aim to improve voter turnout in the district, micro-level planning has been done for better voter turnout in assembly elections.
The DEO assured that the district is fully equipped with an adequate supply of EVMs and VVPATs, including sufficient buffer stock, to ensure the smooth and efficient conduct of the upcoming Assembly Elections, adding that the preparations are in place to facilitate seamless electoral operations across all polling stations.
Meanwhile, SSP presented the law and order arrangements, manpower distribution and the security grid for the district.
During the visit, the CEO also inspected MCMC, receipt and dispatch sections, Counting Centres and Strong Rooms at the district headquarters and gave necessary instructions to the concerned Nodal Officer to ensure free, fair and smooth conduct of elections. The DEO assured the CEO of the Administration’s full preparedness to ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections.
The CEO passed strict directions to the Nodal officers and ROs to follow and implement the Model Code of Conduct and keep vigil on violations, if any, in the district.
Later, the CEO also visited the Dachhan area of district Kishtwar to inspect the intermediate strong rooms and polling stations established for smooth conduct of Assembly Elections. He interacted with students and participated in SVEEP Programme there.
Meanwhile at district Headquarter, CEO participated in SVEEP Electoral Awareness programme at Chowgan ground. The awareness programme included the unveiling of Lok-Sabha Election 2024 Coffee Table Book, Plantation Drive, SVEEP cultural Skit, Voters Pledge. A SVEEP Van was also flagged off on the occasion by CEO J&K in presence DEO Kishtwar, SSP Kishtwar and other officers.
- Expenditure Observer Samba reviews monitoring mechanism; assesses election arrangements in border areas
SAMBA: Expenditure Observer Karthik Manickam M, for Samba district today took a comprehensive review of election expenditure monitoring at a meeting here today in the Conference Hall of DC Office Complex, Nandani Hills. The Observer earlier toured border areas to take on spot assessment of arrangements for the Assembly Election.
The meeting brought together key officials overseeing the expenditure of candidates and political parties across all three assembly constituencies in the district.
The Expenditure Observer was briefed by the nodal officer on the preparations for monitoring financial expenditures and enforcing the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) guidelines. The focus was on ensuring compliance with the Model Code of Conduct and addressing any potential violations or malpractices.
The meeting was attended by the nodal officer of the Expenditure Monitoring Committee, along with members of the Video Surveillance Teams (VSTs), Video Viewing Teams (VVTs), Model Code of Conduct Monitoring Teams, and Accounting Teams. Notable attendees included BDO Vijaypur and heads of Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) and Flying Squad Teams (FSTs).
Earlier, the Expenditure Observer conducted a thorough review of election preparations in the sensitive border areas on the second day of his visit . He was accompanied by District Election Officer, Rajesh Sharma, SSP Vinay Kumar and other senior officers during the inspection.
Manickam visited polling stations in Jerda, Rangoor and Pangdour, focusing on security and infrastructure readiness. He also inspected bunkers and assessed security measures to ensure voter safety in these high-risk areas. Additionally, he visited the famous Baba Chamliyal shrine to review the surrounding security arrangements and preparedness.
- 2nd phase of training for polling staff begins in Bhaderwah
BHADERWAH: The second phase of Election Training Program for the polling staff for the upcoming J&K Assembly Elections 2024 commenced today at the Community Hall Bhaderwah. The session brought together designated polling staff from across the region, focusing on preparing them for the crucial election process.
General Observer Malikarjun A. visited the training center, monitoring the activities closely. He provided guidance on various aspects of the election, including the handling of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), and emphasized adherence to the Election Commission of India’s guidelines.
Satisfied with the progress of the first phase, he reviewed the second phase of training, which covers polling staff such as Presiding Officers (P.O.) and officials designated as P1, P2, and P3. The training aims to ensure smooth polling for Assembly Constituency 51, Bhaderwah, scheduled for the 18th of this month.
Master Trainer, Dr. Nazir Ahmed led the session with a detailed presentation on the election process, highlighting the importance of accurate voter identification and careful handling of EVMs. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, allowing participants to clarify any doubts. Coordinator Arif Rana, along with other Assistant Master Trainers (ALMTs), was also present at the event.
Following his interaction with the polling staff, General Observer Malikarjun A. conducted inspections of several polling stations, including Divisional Forest Complex, High School Nichlathra, Girls Higher Secondary School, and Government Degree College Bhaderwah, ensuring preparations are in place for the upcoming election.
- 1st Phase election training held across six Assembly Constituencies of district Kathua
KATHUA: The first round of election training session was successfully conducted today across all six Assembly Constituencies (ACs) of District Kathua, focusing on preparations for the upcoming Assembly Elections.
The training programs, organized at Government Degree College (GDC) Bani for AC 63-Bani, GDC Billawar for AC 64-Billawar, GDC Basohli for AC 65-Basohli, Town Hall Kathua for AC 66-Jasrota, GDCW Kathua for 67-Kathua(SC) and GDC Hiranagar for AC 68-Hiranagar, were facilitated by dedicated teams of District Level Master Trainers (DLMTs) and Assembly Level Master Trainers (ALMTs).
The sessions, coordinated by Nodal Officer for Election Training, Ranjit Thakur aimed to equip employees from various departments with the essential knowledge and operational skills necessary for effective election management.
To ensure comprehensive coverage, the training sessions were held both in the morning and evening, accommodating the schedules of all participants.
A significant portion of the training focused on the operation and management of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs). Trainees were guided through detailed PowerPoint presentations and hands-on practice sessions, enabling them to gain confidence in handling these machines under various scenarios.
The training included briefings on the election process and emphasized the importance of adhering to guidelines and protocols essential for maintaining the secrecy, integrity, and transparency of the election process. This focus is vital in upholding public trust in the democratic system.
The four day training sessions are being carried out by expert DLMTs and ALMTs to acquaint the polling staff with the complete polling process. A total of 3893 employees attended the training sessions across the district in all six Assembly Constituencies.
- Vibrant SVEEP program held at Gool to promote voter participation
RAMBAN: An engaging Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program was successfully conducted today at Government Higher Secondary School, Gool. The event aimed to enhance voter education and encourage active community participation in the upcoming assembly elections.
Organized by the District Administration under the guidance of District Election Officer, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, the program emphasized the importance of empowering every citizen to make informed choices and ensuring that every eligible voter exercises their fundamental right to vote.
With a strong focus on inclusivity, the initiative urged all voters to participate actively, ensuring that no one is left out of the electoral process.
SVEEP activities across the district have been instrumental in raising voter awareness and promoting widespread participation, reinforcing the core values of a vibrant democracy. As more citizens become informed, the democratic foundation is strengthened, ensuring that every voice is heard and every vote is counted.
The event saw significant participation from voters, teachers, Booth Level Officers (BLOs), and students. The awareness program was held under the overall supervision of District Nodal Officer SVEEP, S. Bikram Singh.
- Comprehensive SVEEP events held across Kathua to promote voter awareness, education
KATHUA: A series of impactful events were held across multiple locations in Kathua district today under the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) Program to spread voter awareness, promote electoral education and encourage maximum voter participation in the legislative assembly elections scheduled in the district on October 1, 2024.
A variety of activities including painting competitions, debates, slogan writing, Nukad Natak, and a voter awareness rally were held at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Hutt. Students and local community members enthusiastically participated in these initiatives.
Key highlights included discussions on voter registration processes, voter helpline services, and the use of the Voter Helpline App for informed decision-making. The event concluded with a pledge-taking ceremony, where all participants committed to active participation in the electoral process.
In AC 68-Hiranagar, voter awareness rally was held at Government Higher Secondary School Marheen with participation from Girls High School Marheen and Government Degree College Marheen. Slogans "1st October 2024, Voting Day" echoed throughout the community, encouraging citizens to exercise their right to vote.
Besides, a "Chaupal Pe Charcha" session informed local residents of the importance of casting their votes. Government offices, including the Agriculture Extension Office, Tehsil Office, and PHC Marheen, were visited to facilitate voter pledges. Plans were finalized for disseminating voter awareness information via WhatsApp to local farmers, emphasizing the importance of voters from rural areas.
Students from Government High School Govindsar took out a spirited voter awareness rally. Holding banners and flashcards, they promoted the significance of voter literacy and encouraged local citizens to participate in the electoral process. This initiative was part of a broader campaign led by the District Election Office and Returning Officer Vishav Partap Singh of AC 67-Kathua (SC),.
A cultural program was held at Higher Secondary School (HSS) Bhaddu under AC 64-Billawar engaging the students and locals in voter awareness activities. Mohinder Gupta, SVEEP Nodal Officer for the area, detailed the goals of the SVEEP initiative and encouraged responsible voter participation.
Alongside SVEEP activities, an awareness session on the Soil Health & Fertility Scheme (RKVY) was held at GHSS Bhaddu. This pilot project, being executed in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, trained students in soil sample collection and analysis, promoting sustainable agriculture. The initiative aligns with the broader objective of fostering environmental stewardship among students and communities, emphasizing the role of informed citizens in democratic and environmental sustainability.
- General Observer inspects Critical Polling Stations in Mendhar to assess safety, preparations
POONCH: Election Observer for Mendhar Assembly Constituency of Poonch district, Siddhartha Das today visited critical polling stations to assess safety measures and the overall readiness for the electoral process.
Accompanied by District Election Officer (DEO) Vikas Kundal, the Observer's visit focused on reviewing key arrangements, including security, accessibility, and infrastructure, to guarantee a secure, free, and fair Assembly election.
During the visit, the Election Observer assessed key infrastructure at critical polling stations, including MS Mohalla Khokhran, HSS Girls Mendhar, MS Bhata Kas and HS Sakhi Maidan. He reviewed accessibility features such as ramps for persons with disabilities, water supply, power backup, proper security arrangements, and other essential facilities. The Election Observer instructed the officials to carry out any necessary renovations to ensure these sensitive polling stations are fully prepared for the upcoming elections.
The Observer emphasized the importance of adhering to Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines and instructed election officials to address any potential issues to ensure a hassle-free voting experience. He highlighted the need for seamless coordination among polling staff to maintain an efficient and secure voting process.
The observer stressed the importance of a well-structured election management plan, including the provision of Assured Minimum Facilities at all polling stations as mandated by the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Additionally, the Observer assessed security arrangements in coordination with local personnel, stressing the need for heightened vigilance, especially in critical polling stations identified in the Mendhar Assembly Constituency to prevent any illegal activities or disruptions during the election.
- DEO Rajouri interacts with staff deployed for Pink, PwD polling stations
RAJOURI: District Election Officer (DEO) Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, today interacted with the polling staff trained to operate Pink and PwD polling stations during a session held here in the Dak Bungalow.
At the outset, the District Nodal Officer for Elections, Dr. Naseem Ahmed, provided a detailed briefing to the DEO regarding the comprehensive training that had been imparted to the polling staff from all five Assembly Constituencies of Rajouri district. Dr. Ahmed emphasized that the training focused on ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for voters, especially in setting up Pink Polling Stations and making provisions for PWD voters.
In his address, DEO Abhishek Sharma highlighted the critical responsibilities of polling staff during the election process. He stressed the need for strict adherence to the guidelines issued by the ECI to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections. Sharma also emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and handling election duties with the utmost care and impartiality.
An interactive session followed, where the DEO engaged with the polling staff by asking questions related to their roles and responsibilities. This exchange allowed the staff to clarify their doubts and ensured that they fully understood their duties, especially regarding the management of Pink Polling Stations and the facilitation of voting for PWD voters.
The session also saw the participation of Nodal Officer for Model Polling Stations, Aditi Sengaal, along with District-Level Master Trainers (DLMTs) and Assembly-Level Master Trainers (ALMTs), who were instrumental in providing training and support to the polling staff.
- Voter awareness programme under SVEEP held at CDPO Office Udhampur
UDHAMPUR: The District Election Cell Udhampur, under the guidance of District Election Officer Saloni Rai, organised a voter awareness programme under the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation initiative here today in the CDPO Office.
The event was presided over by PO Poshan Subash Dogra, as the chief guest, while Dr. Preeti Sharma, Nodal Officer SVEEP oversaw the proceedings.
Addressing the participants, the chief guest emphasized the importance of voting and electoral participation, particularly educating Anganwadi workers about their pivotal role in the democratic process. He urged them to not only exercise their own right to vote but also to encourage the community to do the same. The event highlighted the empowerment of women in the electoral process, encouraging them to actively participate in shaping the nation's future.
- General Observer visits Polling Stations in 35-Rajpora Constituency
PULWAMA: Khartade Kalicharan Sudama Rao, the General Observer for 35-Rajpora Assembly Constituency Friday conducted a thorough inspection of several polling stations across the constituency, as part of the ongoing preparations for the Legislative Assembly Elections 2024.
The General Observer visited various polling stations in Lassipora, Achan A, Achan B, Panzran, Patipora, Rakh Children, Nowpora Payeen and Armulla. He reviewed the preparedness at each polling station, including infrastructure, accessibility and security arrangements.
He interacted with officials to ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place for a smooth and efficient voting process on Election Day, scheduled for 18th September 2024. The visit underscores the Election Commission’s commitment to ensuring free, fair and transparent elections in the region.
- General Observer for Rajpora-AC reviews commissioning at Strong Room
PULWAMA: The General Observer for Rajpora Assembly Constituency (AC), Khartade Kalicharan Sudama Rao visited the Strong Room today to review the ongoing commissioning process ahead of the Legislative Assembly Elections 2024.
During the visit, the General Observer conducted a thorough inspection of the Strong Room and assessed the arrangements in place for securing election materials and electronic voting machines (EVMs).
He emphasized the need for stringent security measures and adherence to the guidelines provided by the Election Commission of India to ensure a transparent and efficient electoral process. The visit highlights the Election Commission’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and security in the election process.
