JAMMU/SRINAGAR: In preparation for the upcoming General Assembly Elections 2024, District Election Officers (DEOs) across Jammu & Kashmir are actively inspecting and supervising various election-related arrangements to ensure a smooth and transparent polling process. From Srinagar to Kupwara, Ganderbal to Udhampur, and Rajouri to Kathua, multiple initiatives such as training sessions, awareness programs, mock polls, and EVM management are being conducted under the guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
These activities aim to foster voter awareness, facilitate seamless polling, and ensure that every eligible voter exercises their democratic right in a secure and organized manner. The SVEEP (Systematic Votersâ Education and Electoral Participation) campaign is in full swing, promoting voter participation through rallies, cultural events, and interactive programs across the region. With a dedicated focus on the inclusion of women, youth, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, election authorities are committed to making this electoral exercise a fair and participatory experience for all.
DEO Srinagar inspects Collection/ Distribution Centres
SRINAGAR: The District Election Officer(DEO) Srinagar Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat today visited Distribution and Collection centres established for Zadibal and Lal chowk Assembly Constituencies at SP College and SP School.
During the visit, District Election Officer(DEO) took a detailed assessment of the arrangements put up for the safety, surveillance and security of Election-related material and machinery kept at these centres for the smooth and seamless conduct of Assembly Elections elections.
While interacting with the concerned Returning Officers and other staff the DEO instructed them to ensure all safety measures and adherence to the guidelines of the Election Commission of India in letter and spirit for the protection of election-related material and machinery at these centres.
The RO also stressed on proper handling and management of the EVMs and other Election related material, besides ensuring an efficient and secure mechanism for its storage. Deputy District Election Officer, Srinagar, Mir Imtiyaz ul Aziz and other concerned accompanied the DEO during the visit.
DEO Kupwara inspects Commissioning of EVM/ VVPAT, election material
KUPWARA: The District Election Officer (DEO) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan today took an extensive tour of various places in the district and inspected the process of commissioning of EVM/ VVPAT and election material.
At Handwara, the DEO visited ITI Handwara and inspected the ongoing commissioning of EVM/ VVPAT machines and election material. RO Handwara, Aziz Ahmad Rather accompanied the DEO.
The DEO also inspected the Counting Hall and Strong Room established at ITI Handwara and took stock of the preparations made for conduct of the polling process in Handwara and Langate Assembly Constituencies.
She stressed upon the concerned officers and employees engaged with the election duty to work with utmost dedication and coordination to ensure smooth conduct of the election.
Earlier, RO Handwara briefed the DEO about the various preparations made in the sub division Handwara for hassle free conduct of the election process.
RO Handwara chairs meeting with Zonal, Sectoral Magistrates & poll staff
KUPWARA: In order to acquaint Zonal and Sector Magistrates about their role and responsibilities in the upcoming Assembly elections as per the guidelines of the Election Commission of India, the Returning Officer (RO) AC-05 Handwara, Aziz Ahmad Rather today chaired a meeting at Environmental Hall Handwara.
All the officers were sensitized on compliance to various norms related to mock poll and its clearance, EVM Handling and replacement, placement of reserve polling staff, periodic poll day reporting, security related coordination with police counterparts, coordination with POs and other related issues.
They were asked to ensure complete coordination with POs and with all stakeholders for smooth conduct of elections in their allotted sectors/zones.
The RO further stressed upon the officers to take their responsibility with utmost care and seriousness and stay proactive on the ground to ensure free, fair and smooth election process in the district. Meanwhile, 06 Zonal and 19 Sector Magistrates have been deployed for Handwara AC for smooth conduct of the polling.
Nukkad Natak organized under SVEEP at Mansar to promote voter awareness
UDHAMPUR: A Nukkad Natak was organized under the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation awareness program here at Mansar under the supervision of District Election Officer Udhampur, Saloni Rai.
The Nukkad Natak was presented by the Sangam Group Theatre, aimed to raise awareness about the significance of voting and encourage citizens, especially the youth, to actively participate in the upcoming General Assembly Elections 2024.
The performance underscored the importance of every vote and its role in shaping the democratic future of the country. The event was attended by Block Development Officer Majalta, Nidhi Kralia, BLO Mansar and members of the BAG team.
Polling staff training underway in Udhampur
UDHAMPUR: Under the overall supervision of District Election Officer Udhampur Saloni Rai, a series of comprehensive training sessions for smooth and transparent conduct of General Elections to Legislative Assembly J&K 2024 are being organized at different locations in all four constituencies of district Udhampur.
The training sessions are primarily focusing on the role and responsibilities of polling staff for conducting elections. Emphasis is being laid to ensure that polling staff are well prepared and confident to handle their responsibilities effectively.
The Presiding and Polling officials are being imparted hands-on practice of Voting Machines and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trials (VVPAT), setting up of dummy polling stations and visual demonstrations of election process. The training process is being supervised by Nodal Officer training management (DSEO Udhampur).
Grand Bike, Car Rally organized to promote SVEEP awareness in border belt of Doongi, Nowshera
RAJOURI: As part of the ongoing SVEEP (Systematic Votersâ Education and Electoral Participation) campaign, a grand bike and car rally was organised here today in the border areas of Doongi and Nowshera to raise voter awareness ahead of the upcoming Jammu & Kashmir Assembly elections.
The event was organized under the directives of District Election Officer Abhishek Sharma.
As many as 50 bikers and cars participated in the rally, carrying placards with slogans emphasizing the importance of the right to vote. The rally passed through key areas, including Keri and Chiti Bakri, before concluding at Tek, engaging local communities along the way and spreading awareness about the significance of voting in a democracy.
Earlier, the rally was flagged off from Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Doongi by District Nodal Officer SVEEP, Bishamber Dass (Chief Education Officer, Rajouri), in the presence of the School Principal Sajjad Ahmed Malik, Headmaster Government High School Parran Gafoor Ahmed and members of the District SVEEP team.
Meanwhile, another rally was organized in the Nowshera sector under the supervision of Nodal Officer SVEEP AC-84, JP Singh. This rally took off from Government Boys Higher Secondary School Nowshera and culminated near the Line of Control (LoC). It witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 120 men and women bikers. They highlighted voter right and stressed the importance of making informed choices in the electoral process.
Both rallies aimed to engage the public, particularly the youth and women, to ensure a higher voter turnout in the forthcoming elections scheduled for 25th September 2024. The initiative was widely appreciated by the local communities, viewing it as a significant step toward strengthening democracy in the Rajouri district.
Election Observers assess arrangement for upcoming Assembly Election in Ganderbal
GANDERBAL: The General Observer, R. Lakshmanan; Expenditure Observer, Ashok Gautam and Police Observer Bipin Shankar rao Ahire today held a joint meeting here in the Conference Hall of Mini Secretariat to assess and finalize the arrangements for Assembly Elections-2024 in the district.
The meeting was attended by District Election Officer (DEO), Shyambir; SSP Ganderbal, WasimQadri; Additional District Development Commissioner, Mushtaq Ahmad Simnani; ASP Ganderbal, Aijaz Ahmad; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Gulzar Ahmad; ROs, Dy DEO, CPO and other Nodal Officers.
At the outset, the Observers took a detailed review of arrangements including Marking of electoral rolls, status of home voting, Postal ballot, Voter slip and EPIC distribution, transport plan, queue management on poll day, webcasting in polling stations, Material Management, arrangements for poll parties, AMF status and discussed various other crucial aspects related to the conduct of Assembly elections in the district.
The General Observer emphasized the importance of efficient queue management on polling day, especially at multiple polling stations or where the voter count exceeds 1000 to ensure a smooth and orderly voting process. He directed officials to ensure that adequate arrangements are in place so that voters do not experience any delays or discomfort while casting their votes.
Regarding webcasting in polling stations, the Observers instructed that the proper positioning of cameras should be ensured in all polling stations. Webcasting is a crucial measure to maintain transparency and vigilance during polling, and the officials were urged to implement these arrangements effectively.
Meanwhile, the Observers also thoroughly reviewed the arrangements put up for DCRCs established in Degree College Ganderbal for Ganderbal Assembly Constituency and Degree College Kangan for Kangan Assembly Constituency.
The Nodal Officer for Expenditure Monitoring provided an update on the regular monitoring of election expenses for contesting candidates. He informed that notices have already been issued to candidates found violating the guidelines set by the Election Commission of India (ECI).
The Observers reiterated the importance of strict adherence to ECI guidelines to ensure transparency and accountability in the election process. The Observers stressed the need for a proactive approach and urged all stakeholders to maintain continuous cooperation to ensure that the elections are conducted in a free, fair, and participatory manner in Ganderbal.
- Mega Voter Awareness program reverberates Manasbal Park with flavour of democracy
- Series of vibrant activities held to engage voters
GANDERBAL: In a major initiative aimed at fostering greater voter awareness and participation, the picturesque Manasbal Lake was transformed into a hub of democratic activity with the launch of a mega voter awareness program under the Systematic Votersâ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative.
The event, presided over by District Election Expenditure Observer, Ashok Gautam along with District Election Officer, Shyambir, CEO MDA, Chief Education Officer and other officials was organized by the District Election Office Ganderbal.
The event witnessed a series of vibrant activities aimed at educating, engaging and empowering voters, particularly the youth and women, to understand the importance of voting, the electoral process, and the need for inclusive democracy.
The event kicked-off with a Cycle rally, where the youngsters, enlightened with the vision of democracy showed overwhelming participation, with every pedal, they reaffirmed their commitment to participate in democratic process.
The highlight of the day was the shikara rally in which hundreds of youth, locals and Government officials participated in making the Waters of Manasbal abuzz with the vibes and flavour of democracy. Boats, adorned with banners and posters promoting voter participation, glided across the lake, carrying a message of democracy's vitality.
Speaking on the occasion, the Expenditure Observer expressed his gratitude to the participants and appreciated the students and artists for spreading the message of democracy and importance of exercising valuable right to franchise. He urged all to show the same enthusiasm on 25th of September, the day district Ganderbal goes to polls.
The DEO, while speaking on the occasion said that through this mega voter awareness program, the aim is to infuse the democratic spirit in every individual and encourage everyone, especially youth and women, to actively engage in the electoral process.
Amid the physical rush of rallies, the day also resonated with soulful musical performances and skits. Local artists enthusiastically performed on election-centric themes, including Folk, Qawali, Skit etc. that highlighted the significance of democracy, unity, and the power of every vote with a message that every vote counts.
DEO Baramulla reviews preparations for Home Voting Arrangements
BARAMULLA: In view of the upcoming elections, the District Election Officer (DEO) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa today conducted a comprehensive review of the preparations for the home voting arrangements scheduled for the 24th, 25th, and 26th of September 2024.
These arrangements aim to assist voters who may face challenges in reaching polling stations, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and others with special needs, ensuring that every eligible voter can exercise his vote.
As part of the planning, 49 teams have been constituted to cover all seven Assembly Constituencies of Baramulla District. The DEO emphasized the need for close coordination among the teams and urged officers to ensure that the entire process is efficiently managed. Each team will visit the homes of those eligible for home voting, ensuring a seamless and transparent voting experience.
The DEO stressed the importance of strict adherence to the Election Commissionâs guidelines, emphasizing transparency and professionalism throughout the process. Comprehensive training will be provided to the staff, and all necessary logistical arrangements, including security, will be put in place.
He outlined key Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including eligibility verification for pre-registered voters, deployment of trained teams to ensure privacy and security during the voting process, and the use of postal ballots besides Video recording of the process to ensure transparency.
This initiative demonstrates the District Election officeâs commitment to fostering an inclusive voting process, ensuring that no voter is left behind. The DEO assured the public that all required steps are being taken to provide a smooth, secure, and accessible voting experience for those utilizing home voting.
Deputy District Election Officer Baramulla, Ab Rehman Bhat; Nodal Officer Police Sopore, Mir Murtaza Hussain; Nodal Officer Police Baramulla, Yasir Qadri; Nodal Officer Postal Ballot, Yadvinder Singh, Member Secretary MCMC, Iftakhar Naseem; Nodal Officer Transport, Muazzam Ali, were present in the meeting.
Home Voting Schedule announced for Persons with Disabilities & Senior Citizens in Baramulla
BARAMULLA: The District Election Officer (DEO) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa Saturday announced that home voting will commence for eligible voters, including Absentee Voters for Persons with Disabilities (AVPDs) and Absentee Voters for Senior Citizens (AVSCs), in all seven Assembly Constituencies of the district from 24th September 2024 to 26th September 2024.
Voters who have submitted Form 12D and have been approved by the Returning Officers are eligible to participate in this home voting process. These voters must ensure their presence at the address provided in Form 12D in order to cast their vote.
It is important to note that the voters' names have been marked on the Electoral Roll for the issuance of Postal Ballots (PBs). As a result, they will not be allowed to vote at their designated polling stations and must cast their vote exclusively through the postal ballot system.
The District Election Officer urged all eligible voters to participate actively in the election process, ensuring their voices are heard and contributing to the democratic process.
RO Bandipora-AC streamlines Election preparations for Constituency
BANDIPORA: In preparation for the forthcoming General Elections to the Legislative Assembly (GELA) in Bandipora District, the Returning Officer (RO) 15-Bandipora Assembly Constituency (AC), Shabir Ahmad Wani on Saturday convened a meeting at Mini Secretariat Bandipora to streamline election preparations for the constituency.
The meeting discussed threadbare various election related issues to ensure that all officers involved in the election process are aligned with their responsibilities, particularly in ensuring the Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) at polling stations, maintaining smooth coordination during poll days, and addressing any other election-related concerns.
RO emphasized that election authority is committed to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, and stressed the role of all stakeholders to achieve this goal.
He instructed all the officers/officials involved in elections to ensure comprehensive coordination across all levels. Among others the meeting was attended by Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) of 15-Bandipora AC, Zonal, Sectoral and Presiding Officers besides others concerned.
- Home Voting concludes with enthusiastic response from Voters in Zadibal-AC
- Mega Voter Awareness program under SVEEP held at Nehru Park Srinagar
SRINAGAR: Returning Officer, 24 Zadibal Assembly Constituency (AC) of District Srinagar, Dr. Khalid Hussain Malik today officially concluded the optional home voting facility, which marked a paradigm shift in the electoral process and has been made available for the old aged and PwD voters.
This facility has received an enthusiastic response from voters with gratifying scenes of smiling voters and their testimonials voting from the comfort of their homes have flooded social media.
Voting from home takes place with involvement of a full contingent of polling staff and security personnel with secrecy of voting diligently maintained. The home voting facility commenced on 19 September, 2024 and concluded on 21 September, 2024.
Returning Officer, 24-Zadibal AC also accompanied the polling party designated for Home voting on the concluding day to oversee the process. Meanwhile, a mega voter awareness program under SVEEP (Systematic Votersâ Education and Electoral Participation) was also organized at Nehru Park Srinagar.
The awareness program aimed to educate citizens about the importance of voting, voter registration processes, and electoral participation. SVEEP is the flagship program of the ECI for voter education, spreading voter awareness and promoting voter literacy in India. It is a multi-intervention programme that reaches out through different modes and media to educate citizens, electors, and voters about the electoral process to increase their awareness and promote their informed participation.
The program drew a diverse crowd, including local voters, women, students, and teachers, all eager to learn and participate. Officials at the event underscored the vital role of every vote in shaping the regionâs future governance. They encouraged attendees not only to cast their votes but also to inspire others in their communities to do the same. With the Assembly Election set for September 25, 2024, the message was clear: informed and active participation is crucial.
The event also served as an educational platform, particularly for youth and women, on various aspects of the electoral process. The active involvement of these groups highlighted the communityâs dedication to strengthening democracy.
Nodal Officer (SVEEP) of 24 Zadibal AC, Aijaz Hussain Malik; Mohammad Azhar Lone, Nodal Officer MCC for Zadibal AC and officers and officials from Chief Education Officer, Srinagar; J&K Lakes Conservation and Management Authority, Srinagar; Department of Floriculture; Srinagar Municipal Corporation and police also participated in programme and contributed to its success.
Beyond fostering public engagement, the officials from the team said that the District Administration remains committed to ensuring a fair, transparent, and inclusive election.
SVEEP: Mega Voter Awareness Event held at Goripora Eidgah-AC
SRINAGAR: In a bid to promote voter awareness and increase electoral participation in the ensuing Assembly Electios in the district, a mega event under Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative was Saturday held at Goripora area of 25-Eidgah constituency.
The event witnessed a vibrant display of activity and civic responsibility as hundreds gathered for the Mega SVEEP event held on the directions of District Election Officer (DEO) Srinagar, to energize and educate the common masses of the area about the importance of Voting.
The event began with a 'Cycle Rally' which was flagged off from Bakshipora by Shabina Kyser, District Nodal Officer SVEEP for promoting voter participation which culminated at main venue Goripora Park.
A âRun for Democracyâ rally took-off from Palpora in which school students, teachers, BLOs and members of local community participated for promoting voter awareness through banners and slogans.
At the main venue Nighat Parveen, Nodal officer SVEEP for 25-AC Eidgah, emphasized the importance of every citizenâs involvement in the democratic process. She said, "Our goal is to ensure that every eligible voter is informed, engaged, and empowered to make their voice heard.
M Iqbal Zargar, ARO 25-Eidgah, who was the chief guest on the occasion addressed the gathering and highlighted the role of voting in strengthening democracy. He said SVEEP events remains a cornerstone of our electoral preparedness and the administration is dedicated to maintaining momentum through continued educational initiatives and outreach efforts.
The day-long programme witnessed substantial participation from young voters and other members of the community, reflecting a robust engagement with the democratic process.
A festive atmosphere took over as cultural and sports activities filled the day. Students from various schools participated in traditional Kashmiri performances, including, Ladishah, Rouf folk songs and dramatic skits entertained and conveyed strong voter awareness messages.
The event concluded by reinforcing the ongoing need for voter engagement and the indispensable role of the electorate in the success of democratic processes.
EVM Commissioning commences for Sopore & Rafiabad ACs
BARAMULLA: The segregation process has successfully completed, and the commissioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for Assembly Constituencies 07-Sopore and 08-Rafiabad has commenced at SKUAST Wadoora, Sopore.
The Returning Officers indicated that the commissioning process is expected to be completed before 9 PM today, ensuring timely preparation for the upcoming elections.
General Observer for 07-Sopore and 08-Rafiabad Assembly Constituency, Killu Siva Kumar Naidu visited the site to oversee the commissioning process and assess the arrangements. He emphasized the importance of transparency and efficiency in the electoral process, ensuring that all protocols are followed rigorously.
Returning Officer for 07-Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina, and Returning Officer for 08-Rafiabad, Shabir Ahmad Hakak, provided detailed insights into the preparations, including logistics, security measures, and staff training. They highlighted the collaborative efforts of various departments to ensure that the electoral machinery operates seamlessly.
The successful completion of the segregation and commissioning is a critical step toward facilitating a smooth and efficient electoral process. Voter awareness campaigns are also being planned to ensure that the electorate is informed and prepared for the elections scheduled for October 1, 2024.
DEO Udhampur launches unique aerial voter awareness campaign
UDHAMPUR: To boost voter participation in the upcoming assembly elections, District Election Officer Udhampur Saloni, Rai launched an innovative aerial awareness campaign as part of the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation program.
This unique initiative features two large air balloons, strategically elevated at key locations, including the busy Tikri Highway and Jakheni, catching the eye of residents and commuters alike.
The balloons, emblazoned with bold messages encouraging electoral participation, have already garnered significant public attention, sparking curiosity and conversation among voters. The purpose behind this novel approach is to motivate voters to exercise their democratic right on October 1st.
By using visual engagement tools like air balloons, the campaign hopes to drive home the message of the critical role each vote plays in shaping the future.
The floating balloons, which have already attracted widespread attention, are not only designed to inform but also inspire citizens to participate actively in the upcoming elections.
DEO inspects facilities at Women-Managed Polling Stations in Poonch
POONCH: District Election Officer (DEO), Vikas Kundal today inspected pink polling stations across Surankote, Mendhar, and Haveli constituencies. Accompanied by Qurat-ul-Ain (District Nodal Officer, Pink Polling Stations), he visited Higher Secondary School Girls Surankote, Higher Secondary School Boys Mendhar and Bal Ashram in Haveli.
The DEO also conducted inspection of Women-Managed Pink Polling Stations. These locations will be managed entirely by women staff, catering primarily to women voters. The Election Commission of India's initiative aims to empower women in the electoral process and provide a comfortable, inclusive voting environment.
During the visit, the DEO interacted with the all-women teams, emphasizing that staff must be women wearing pink attire on the election day- September 25, 2024. "The pink dress code will create a welcoming atmosphere for women voters. These pink polling stations represent our commitment to gender equality," Vikas Kundal stated.
The Nodal officer assured to make these stations efficient and comfortable for women voters adding that All-women staff in pink attire will foster solidarity and empowerment."
Samba: SVEEP initiative promotes voter awareness through U-19 Girls Volleyball Championship
SAMBA: The District Youth Services and Sports Office (DYSSO) Samba, under the esteemed leadership of Director General Rajinder Singh Tara, inaugurated Inter-District Divisional Level Volleyball Championship for Under-19 Girls today at Government High School Jatwal. The event is being supervised by DYSSO, Dharmvir Singh and marks the celebration of youth sportsmanship and empowerment.
Chief Education Officer Kewal Kumar was the Chief Guest , while other guests included Ekshu, Assistant Director Handloom and District Nodal Officer SVEEP. Their presence added prestige to the occasion and encouraged the participants.
In her motivating address, the Nodal Officer SVEEP urged the students and athletes to actively participate in sports and fulfill their democratic responsibility. She emphasized the power and importance of vote and urged participants to spread awareness about the same. She also encouraged the audience to report any instances of drug consumption to the police or district administration to promote a healthier, drug-free society.
The championship witnessed enthusiastic participation, with 83 girls forming seven teams from various districts of the Jammu province. Their dedication, energy, and team spirit set the tone for an exciting tournament. The DYSSO extended heartfelt congratulations to all the participants and winners for their exemplary sportsmanship.
Mega SVEEP awareness event held in Bani to encourage voter participation
KATHUA: A mega SVEEP (Systematic Votersâ Education and Electoral Participation) activity was organized today in Bani with the objective of raising voter awareness and encouraging greater participation in the upcoming elections.
The event was held under the leadership of Returning Officer (RO) Bani, Gias ul Haq (SDM) and witnessed the active involvement of ARO Bani, Predhyum Atri, BDO Bani, Rajesh Padha, Nodal Officer SOPs, Dr. Resham Singh, and Women Nodal Officer, Ravinder Kour(CDPO Duggan)
The event drew participation from students and staff members of various educational institutes, including Govt. Degree College Bani, ITI Bani, Govt. Higher Secondary School Bani, and Government Girls High School Bani. Supervisors, ASHA workers, and Anganwadi workers were also present.
The program commenced with a welcome address by SVEEP Nodal Officer, Prof. Naseeb Kr. Bhagat. Chief Guest, RO Bani, Gias ul Haq, emphasized the importance of youth and womenâs participation in voting to strengthen the democratic framework of Jammu & Kashmir. He urged students to spread the message of ethical voting within their communities.
ARO Bani also addressed the gathering, highlighting the critical role of SVEEP in educating the public about the importance of voting. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Ashok Choudhary, a teacher at Government Higher Secondary School Bani.
As part of the program, students formed a human chain on the school premises before leading a mega awareness rally through Bani market. The rally, which began at Government High School Bani and concluded at the Forest Check Post, saw over 500 participants, including officials from the Health and Medical Education Department, the Revenue Department, as well as Anganwadi workers and supervisors. The students held placards with powerful messages in Hindi, English and Urdu, displaying slogans such as "My Vote, My Right," "Voting is Power," and "My Vote, My Choice."
SVEEP Nodal Officer Bani, Prof. Bhagat, expressed gratitude to all participants for their enthusiastic involvement and dedication to promoting voter awareness ahead of the upcoming voting day on 1st October 2024.
MC Hiranagar, local schools promote voter awareness through creative medium
KATHUA: In a unique initiative, the Municipal Committee (MC) Hiranagar reached out to voters by broadcasting audio messages on waste collection vehicles, urging residents to participate in the upcoming elections on 1st October 2024. The audio campaign aimed to remind citizens of their responsibility and the power of their vote.
In a parallel effort, Government Girls High School (GGHS) Kootah organized a painting and slogan-writing competition under the supervision of Headmaster Babbita Sharma. The theme of the event was "The Importance of Casting Votes." The students displayed their creativity in both art and messaging to promote voter awareness.
Similarly, Government High School (GHS) Mela held a quiz competition on the subject of elections, engaging students in a fun and educational activity to highlight the significance of voting.
In addition to these initiatives, the BAG (Booth Awareness Group) team conducted extensive awareness activities in Panchayat Pathwal, engaging with women voters, farmers, and local shopkeepers to encourage them to exercise their right to vote. The outreach emphasized the importance of active civic participation in shaping the future of the community.
Later in the day, a painting and slogan-writing competition was organized at Government High School Dhorsi Kalyari on the topic "The Importance of Casting Votes." The event saw enthusiastic participation from students, who conveyed powerful messages through their artwork and slogans.
Home Voting records 96.90% polling in District Rajouri
RAJOURI: An impressive 96.90% polling was recorded during the home voting process across District Rajouri. The voting concluded today after three days of extensive efforts by polling teams. The process, which commenced on September 19, focused on facilitating home voting for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWD).
Going by constituency-wise, Kalakote-Sunderbani Assembly Constituency recorded 97.93%; Nowshera Assembly Constituency, 97.19%; Rajouri Assembly Constituency, 96.40%; Budhal Assembly Constituency, 95.20%; Thanamandi Assembly Constituency, 97.42%.
Under the instructions of District Election Officer (DEO) Abhishek Sharma, as many as 150 polling teams were deployed across the district to ensure home voting was accessible to all eligible voters, particularly those residing in hilly and remote areas. The teams were responsible for conducting home voting for 1,615 voters aged 85 and above and 744 PwD voters.
Braving challenging terrain, the teams successfully reached the voters, ensuring that no eligible individual was left out of the democratic process. The DEO Rajouri commended the teams for their dedication and emphasized that the successful completion of home voting in such conditions reflects the district's commitment to inclusivity in the electoral process.
Mega Mushaira under SVEEP held at GCOE Srinagar
SRINAGAR: A grand Mushaira under Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) Campaign was organized today at Auditorium of Government College of Education (GCOE), M.A. Road here.
The event, aimed at promoting the importance of voting and democracy, was organized by the Nodal Principal of Kashmir Division Colleges and Returning Officer of Lal Chowk constituency. Election Observer, Chandresh Kumar was Chief Guest on the occasion while as Police Observer, R. Suhas was Guest of Honour.
Nodal officer for SVEEP, Akhter Husain Qazi; Media Nodal Officer for CEO office J&K, Sapna Kotwal; Returning Officer of Lal Chowk Constituency, Amir Choudhary; Nodal Officer of SVEEP Lalchowk AC, Prof. Lateef Ahmad Shah and other officers were also present on the occasion.
The Mushaira, moderated by Arshid Souleh, saw the participation of students and faculty members from ten colleges across the city. Ten distinguished poets recited poetry centring around the themes of voting and democracy, inspiring the audience with their profound reflections.
In his address, Election Observer, emphasized on the critical role of voting in a democracy and even shared a few lines of poetry to highlight its significance.
Police Observer, R. Suhas echoed these sentiments, underscoring the value of every vote. Qazi Akhter and Sapna Kotwal also shared their thoughts on the importance of voting, with Akhter reciting a few couplets on the theme. Prof. Lateef Ahmad Shah added his views on the power of the vote.
The event began with a warm welcome speech by the Nodal Principal of the College, Prof. Seema Naz, who expressed her gratitude to the distinguished guests. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Prof. A.G. Kumar.
This Mushaira was a unique blend of art and civic responsibility, successfully engaging students and faculty alike in the democratic discourse through the power of poetry.
Expenditure Observer holds Meeting of Contesting Candidates, Political Parties at Bandipora
BANDIPORA: The Election Expenditure Observer for Bandipora District, Sudeep Dabas on Saturday convened a meeting with contesting candidates and representatives from various political parties representing the Bandipora and Sonawari Assembly Constituencies at Mini Secretariat, here.
During the meeting, the Expenditure Observer reviewed the Election Expenditure Registers and expressed serious concern regarding candidates who failed to present their registers for the inspection.
He provided a 48-hour deadline for compliance and warned that failure to adhere to the guidelines may result in action as per Election Commission of India (ECI) regulations.
Emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability, Dabas urged all contesting candidates to ensure they obtain the necessary permissions for election-related activities and maintain daily expenditure records. He reiterated that the inspection of expenditure registers is a vital step in monitoring electoral spending and urged all participants to prioritize this responsibility to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process. Nodal officer Expenditure Monitoring, Sheikh Aabid and other concerned were also present on the occasion.
Mega SVEEP Event promotes Voter Awareness at Dul Bagh Park Soura
SRINAGAR: A mega Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) event was organised on Saturday at Dul Bagh Park Soura as part of the ongoing efforts to promote voter awareness ahead of key electoral events in the region.
The event was a joint collaboration of District Election Officer Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din; RO Zadibal, Khalid Hussain; District Nodal Officer SVEEP Srinagar, Shabina Qaiser and Nodal Officer SVEEP AC 24 Zadibal, Firdous Ali Wani.
The event was formally inaugurated by District Nodal Officer SVEEP Srinagar in presence of Nodal Officer SVEEP Zadibal-AC and other Officers and officials by releasing tricolour balloons in the sky.
Mega event was graced by many distinguished guests from civil and police administration including Deputy Chief Education Officer Srinagar, all members of SVEEP Team Srinagar, Principals, staff and students from Govt and Pvt. Higher Secondary and High Schools of Zadibal Constituency.
The event witnessed cultural and musical events, pledge ceremony, SVEEP mascot, fun activities, kite flying, nukkad natak, speeches, ladishah, signature campaign etc.
The District Nodal Officer for SVEEP Srinagar, while addressing participants at the event, underscored the need for first-time voters to come forward and take part in the electoral process. The officer reaffirmed that the SVEEP campaign remains committed to reaching out to all segments of society, ensuring that voters, especially the younger generation, are empowered to make informed choices in the upcoming elections.
Dy Chief Education Officer in her address impressed upon all to make judicious use of vote in upcoming Assembly Elections. The event witnessed active engagement from students, teachers, and members of the local community, highlighting the importance of education and participation in the democratic process.
The event culminated with a Human Chain which symbolised the resolve of all participants to become active citizens of our country by voting on 25th September.
Observers, DEO Reasi chair high level security meet, issues instructions for smooth conduct of polls
REASI: General Observers Avi Prasad and Saroj Kumar Sethi and Police Observer Pradeep Kumar Yadav, along with District Election Officer (DEO) Vishesh Mahajan and SSP Gaurav Sikarwar today chaired a high-level meeting with senior officers of paramilitary, police and district administration to review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to be followed and security measures taken for the upcoming Assembly elections.
During the meeting, DEO gave a brief overview about the current security environment, law enforcement readiness, monitoring structure and election preparedness in anticipation of the Assembly elections. He also highlighted that no uniform man should enter the voting room unless and until required and also informed that strict monitoring through CCTVs will be there.
General Observer Avi Prasad emphasised on professional conduct and alternate plans. General Observer Saroj Sethi emphasised on important message of fair, free, peaceful and transparent elections. Police Observer Pradeep Yadav highlighted that SOPs should be followed and a good security environment should be ensured.
SSP gave a detailed plan of security parties deployed at various locations. The DEO stressed the importance of robust security arrangements on key roads connecting remote areas of the district ensuring high-level checking with minimal inconvenience to commuters. Senior officials from paramilitary forces provided an overview of their action plans for the upcoming elections and coordinated strategies for maintaining law and order.
The meeting was attended by ADDC Sukhdev Samyal, SSP IR Battalion Anita Sharma, ADC Kulbushan Khajuria, ACD Pardeep Kumar, ROâs of AC-56,AC-57, officers from the paramilitary forces CRPF, ITBP, CISF, IRP, ASP Reasi .
