JAMMU: The Forest Department Marwah division restored the Sukhnai Bridge in record time, while in Poonch, the DEA organized a cricket match under SVEEP, and DEO inspected urban polling stations. Across various districts, observers and nodal officers, including in Reasi, Banihal, and Doda, oversaw final preparations for polling parties and voter assistance. Enthusiastic participation marked the home voting in Kishtwar, and SVEEP Cell Rajouri hosted a series of mass awareness events. Additionally, final randomization of polling personnel was successfully conducted in both Poonch and Ramban.
Forest Department Marwah division restores Sukhnai Bridge in record time of 2 days
KISHTWAR: The Forest Department, under the direction of the District Election Officer (DEO), Rajesh Kumar Shavan has successfully restored the Sukhnai Bridge at Warwan Block of Sub Division Marwah, for facilitating the movement of polling parties.
Pertinent to mention that, the bridge serves as the only connecting link to the area and was washed away just 2-3 days ago, threatening the accessibility of the polling station, which serves 380 voters of Polling Station no 01-Sukhnai.
On hearing about the incident, the DEO asked DFO Marwah Vishal Choudhary, who instantly swung into action and pressed the employees of the department into action. The forest department under his close supervisor worked tirelessly day and night and restored the foot bridge.
The DEO expressed appreciation for the DFO's dedication and active role in ensuring that electoral processes were not hampered. The DFO's commitment extends beyond the restoration efforts. Forest Team has been involved in SVEEP Activity and has been instrumental in mapping voters at Dhoks in the remote mountain areas, ensuring inclusive and comprehensive electoral participation in the district
DEA hosts Cricket Match under SVEEP in Poonch
POONCH: The District Election Authority (DEA), Poonch, under the aegis of District Election Officer (DEO) Poonch, Vikas Kundal, organized an exhibition cricket match under the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program at the Sports Stadium, Poonch.
Chief Education Officer, Poonch, Lal Hussain, (Nodal Officer SVEEP) was the chief guest on the occasion. He interacted with the players, administered the voting pledge, and emphasized the importance of electoral participation. The match aimed to engage youth in the democratic process and promote voter awareness.
Lal Hussain said that through the medium of sports, we aim to reach out to the youth and encourage them to exercise their right to vote. Sports and democracy share a common spirit – fair play, inclusivity and teamwork.
The SVEEP program seeks to educate and motivate voters, especially first-time voters, to participate in the electoral process. The exhibition cricket match was an innovative initiative to connect with young voters and promote democratic values.
The match generated enthusiasm among local youth, who were eager to showcase their cricketing skills while learning about their voting rights and responsibilities. District Sports Officer Mool Raj Uttam, Vijay Kumar ZEPO Poonch, Vijay Kumar Sharma, and Ravinder Singh were also present on the occasion.
DEO conducts inspection of Urban Polling Stations in Poonch
POONCH: District Election Officer (DEO) Poonch, Vikas Kundal conducted a comprehensive inspection of urban polling stations in Poonch to ensure the availability of assured minimum facilities (AMF) for smooth polling.
The inspection focused on ensuring the availability of essential amenities, including ramps for persons with disabilities, adequate lighting, and clean drinking water. The DEO also checked security measures and the sensitivity of the polling stations.
The DEO emphasized the importance of providing a conducive polling environment, stating, "Our goal is to ensure that every voter can exercise their franchise with ease and dignity. We are committed to providing all necessary facilities to make the polling process smooth and accessible."
During the inspection, the DEO passed various instructions to the authorities and instructed them to conduct meetings under Booth Level Awareness Groups (BAGs), comprising BLOs, locals, teachers, students, and first-time voters, to ensure 100% voting in the area. He also instructed the officials to address any shortcomings and complete the necessary arrangements before the polling date.
With the polling date approaching, the district administration is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that every eligible voter in Poonch can cast their vote with ease and dignity. The DEO was accompanied by senior officers of District Election authorities.
Final randomization of polling parties for Home Voting held in Poonch
POONCH: The General Election Observer, Solai Bharathi Dasan and District Election Officer (DEO), Vikas Kundal conducted the final randomization of polling staff for home voting for the upcoming Assembly elections in Poonch district today. The home voting shall be conducted from September 18 to September 20, 2024.
The process of randomisation of polling parties ensures impartiality and transparency in assigning staff for home voting, specifically for voters aged 85+ and persons with disabilities in all the three Assembly Constituencies across the Poonch district.
A total of 426 staff members, including polling personnel, micro-observers, and reserves, have been randomized to cover home voting across 176 clusters in the three Assembly Constituencies of Surankote, Haveli, and Mendhar in Poonch district.
In preparation for this exercise, 625 voters aged 85+ and persons with disabilities in Surankote, 717 in Haveli, and 764 in Mendhar have been identified for home voting.
The General Election Observer emphasized the importance of this process in maintaining the integrity and inclusivity of the elections. He stressed that the transparent assignment of polling staff is a critical step in ensuring credible and impartial elections.
The DEO highlighted the focus on achieving 100% voter participation from home voters, stating, "We are committed to full inclusivity in the election process, ensuring that every eligible home voter can exercise their right to vote."
The randomization, conducted using advanced software to eliminate bias, was overseen by senior officials, including ADC Tahir Mustafa Malik, Deputy DEO Saleem Ahmed, ACD Shafiq Ahmed Mir (nodal officer for home voting), and Joint Director/District Informatics Officer Parvinder Singh.
General Observer inspects polling stations in AC-57 Reasi
REASI: In preparation for the upcoming assembly elections, the General Observer for AC-57 Reasi and AC-58 SMVD conducted a thorough inspection of three key polling stations today. The polling stations inspected were Gran Brotian 1 (Polling Station 169), Gran Barotian 1A (Polling Station 168), and Gran Barotian (Polling Station 167) in Assembly Constituency 57 (Reasi).
The General Observer’s inspection included a review of the latest voter lists, ensuring accuracy and thoroughness in voter data. Emphasis was placed on the proper distribution of these voter lists, which is essential for smooth election procedures in the forthcoming assembly elections. The Observer ensured that all preparations at these stations are in accordance with the guidelines laid out by the Election Commission of India.
The Observer also interacted with polling officials to verify the arrangements being made for the voters, ensuring that all necessary steps were being taken to provide a fair and transparent election process. Additionally, the General Observer assessed the availability of Assured Minimum Facilities (AMFs) at the polling stations, which are crucial for ensuring a comfortable and accessible voting experience for all.
This inspection marks another significant step in the ongoing efforts to ensure a free and fair election in the Reasi district. Election officials and stakeholders have been urged to maintain a high level of preparedness as the assembly elections approach.
Police Observer for Reasi inspects various polling stations across district
REASI: Police Observer for District Reasi Sh. Pradeep Kumar Yadav,IPS conducted a thorough inspection of various polling stations of AC-57 Reasi and AC-58 Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. The Police Observer emphasised on the importance of maintaining professionalism to make this election free, fair and peaceful.
The polling station visited includes a triple polling station at Government High school Gran i.e Polling station no.167, 168 ,169( Gran Barotrian-GeetaNagar, Gran-Barotrian-Goswan and Gran Barotrian). Police Observer also visited double polling station i.e Polling station no. 55 and 57 at Government Higher secondary school Aghar jitto. The concerned Booth level officer and police officials apprised the police observer about the arrangements that are put in place.
During the inspection, the main focus was on the evaluation of security protocols, CCTVs and secure logistical arrangements at these polling stations to assess the preparedness of the district for the Assembly elections 2024. Police Observer also visited Shrine board sports complex to review security arrangements in the complex in view of the forthcoming VVIP visits in the area.
The Police Observer emphasised on the importance of maintaining professionalism, the highest standards of security and efficiency throughout the election process. He was accompanied by SSP Reasi Gaurav Sikarwar, other concerned police officers and team.
Nodal Officer polling staff welfare Doda reviews final preparations for polling parties, voter assistance
DODA: Nodal Officer polling staff welfare, Sh. Manoj Kumar, (ACD Doda) convened a final meeting with all Block Development Officers (BDOs) and field staff of the Rural Development Department (RDD) to review the boarding and logistics arrangements for polling parties on the 17th and 18th of September 2024, ahead of the General Election to the Legislative Assembly. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that all logistical aspects, including bedding, food, and transportation for the polling teams, are efficiently organized.
Kumar issued clear directives to the field staff to assist voters at their respective polling stations, ensuring a smooth and accessible voting process. He stressed the need for adequate drinking water facilities and proper cleanliness at all polling stations to create a comfortable and hygienic environment for both the voters and the polling staff.
In addition to logistical arrangements, Kumar also urged the field officers to remain vigilant and proactive in resolving any last-minute challenges that may arise during the election process. He further directed that all support systems be in place for a seamless polling experience, ensuring that voters face no obstacles while exercising their democratic rights.
The meeting concluded with Kumar reaffirming the commitment to maintaining order and ensuring the smooth conduct of elections. He asked the BDOs and field staff to coordinate closely with local authorities, leaving no stone unturned in their preparations for the crucial election days.
General & Expenditure Observers review polling arrangements in AC-55 Banihal
RAMBAN: In preparation for the upcoming Assembly Election 2024, the General Observer Himanshu Kumar Rai, along with Expenditure Observer Sulekh Chand Jain, today conducted an extensive review of the election arrangements in Assembly Constituency- 55 Banihal. Their visit aimed at ensuring smooth dispatch of polling parties and the effective implementation of all necessary logistical and security arrangements.
During the visit, the General Observer met with the Returning Officer Banihal, Rizwan Asgar to assess the preparedness for dispatching polling parties. A detailed review of the stay arrangements for polling personnel was conducted, ensuring that appropriate food and lodging provisions are in place, especially for those staying overnight. Additionally, the allotment of polling stations to micro observers was discussed to ensure effective monitoring of the polling process.
The dispatch plan for polling staff was a focal point of the discussions and the General Observer visited Lambar Ground to personally inspect the transport arrangements. While there, the Observer interacted with the Nodal Officer for Transport, receiving updates on the vehicle availability and scheduling for the movement of polling parties in AC-55 Banihal.
The General Observer also visited the strong room established at Government Higher Secondary School Banihal to review the plan for the distribution of polling materials to the polling parties. Special attention was given to the arrangements for the early morning dispatch of polling staff to their respective polling stations.
The Expenditure Observer also met with representatives of various candidates to address their concerns related to the movement and activities of the Static Surveillance Teams (SST) and Flying Squads (FST). Mr. Jain provided reassurances that the teams would operate transparently and fairly, ensuring adherence to the Model Code of Conduct while facilitating a smooth election process.
Enthusiastic participation from electorates marks the Home Voting in Kishtwar
KISHTWAR: The home voting in the three Assembly Constituencies in Kishtwar District-AC 48-Inderwal, 49-Kishtwar and 50-Paddar Nagseni witnessed enthusiastic participation from the electorates in district Kishtwar.
The voters eligible for home voting including Elderly and PwD voters availed the opportunity to cast their ballots with great zeal amid highest standards of safety, transparency and efficiency throughout the process.
The Election Commission of India initiative to ensure ease and accessibility for voters, particularly the elderly, differently-abled and those unable to visit polling stations, was well-received and resulted in significant voter turnout across the district.
District Election Officer Rajesh Kumar Shavan expressed satisfaction over the smooth conduct of the process, praising the coordination between the polling staff and security personnel, which contributed to the successful execution of home voting proceedings.
SVEEP Cell Rajouri hosts Natrang's Travelling Show Series "Loktantra Ka Asli Mantra" for mass awareness
RAJOURI: In a remarkable demonstration of enthusiasm and community spirit, the District SVEEP Cell Rajouri organized Natrang's Travelling Show Series, "Loktantra Ka Asli Mantra," today. The performances were held at Children Park Rajouri and Nowshera as part of a comprehensive SVEEP (Systematic Voter Education and Electoral Participation) campaign.
Under the guidance of District Election Officer Rajouri, Abisheikh Sharma and the supervision of District Nodal Officer SVEEP Rajouri, Bishamber Dass (CEO Rajouri), the event aimed to enlighten the masses about the importance of voting. The show, written by Padamshree Balwant Thakur and directed by Neeraj Kant, captivated audiences with its poignant narrative, emphasizing the vital role of every citizen in shaping the nation's destiny through active electoral participation.
The District SVEEP team, led by Bishamber Dass and supported by A.H. Fani, Mohammad Ayaz Raina, Rohit Gupta, Umesh Kumar, Aejaz-Ul-Haq and Shazad Mughal, ensured the smooth coordination of the event. Their efforts, along with the presence of Nodal Officer AC-85 Rajouri, Rakesh Kumar Sharma (Principal BMHSS Rajouri), added significant value to the occasion. Both students and the public enjoyed the play in Rajouri.
In Nowshera, the event was supervised by Nodal Officer AC-84 Nowshera, J.P. Singh (Deputy CEO), with notable participation from Returning Officer AC-84 Nowshera, Babu Ram Tandon, Anita Sharma (Principal GGHSS Nowshera) and Vinod Sharma, PwD icon from District Rajouri.
The play, "Loktantra Ka Asli Mantra," attracted over 500 attendees from surrounding areas, including prominent figures from Nowshera. The performance aimed to foster unity, civic engagement and awareness with the goal of boosting voter turnout in the Assembly Constituency of Nowshera. It highlighted the vibrant involvement of local youth and received an enthusiastic response from the public. The event's success was attributed to the effective coordination by the organizing committee and the impactful message delivered.
The organizing team, including Nodal Officer AC-84 Nowshera Madan Lal, Ashish Kumar, Rakesh Kumar and Shakti Sharma, extended heartfelt gratitude to all the participating actors from Natrang for their dedication and energy. Their contributions significantly enhanced the event's impact and effectiveness in promoting voter awareness.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from District Nodal Officer SVEEP Rajouri, who issued a call to action, encouraging citizens to embrace their civic duty and vote in the upcoming Assembly Elections on 25th September 2024 in the UT of J&K.
Final Randomization of Polling Personnel conducted in Ramban
RAMBAN: As part of the preparations for the upcoming General Assembly Elections in 2024, the final randomization of polling personnel for deployment across 365 polling stations in Assembly Constituencies AC-54 Ramban and AC-55 Banihal was successfully completed today at the District Commissioner’s Office Complex, Ramban.
The randomization was overseen by District Election Officer (DEO) Ramban, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, in the presence of Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) and other senior district officials. The process was executed using specialized software, ensuring full adherence to the guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India (ECI), promoting transparency, fairness, and impartiality in the allocation of polling staff.
Deputy District Election Officer Abdul Jabbar, DSEO Ganesh Kumar, DIO Niamatullah Skeikh, ALC Amit Kumar were also in attendance, while the technical implementation of the randomization was expertly handled by District Informatics Officer (DIO) NIC, Prashant Kumar.
