Bye-Elections to 27–AC Budgam - DEO Reviews Final Poll Arrangements at DCRC

• Urges citizens to participate actively in democratic process

BUDGAM: Ahead of polling for the Bye–Elections to 27–Budgam Assembly Constituency on November 11, the District Election Officer (DEO) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat today visited the Distribution cum Collection Centre (DCRC) established at Boys Higher Secondary School, Budgam, to review the final arrangements for dispatch of polling parties and election materials.

Besides, General Observer, Bhor Singh Yadav; Police observer Nachiketa Jha; Expenditure observer Ravinder Kumar; SSP budgam Nikhil Borkar, Returning Officer (RO) Budgam, Deputy District Election Officer (Dy. DEO), and other senior officers of the district administration were also present. During the visit, the DEO conducted a detailed inspection of the DCRC facilities, including dispatch areas for EVMs and VVPATs, parking arrangements, sanitation and washroom facilities, and the availability of drinking water, electricity, and security provisions.

He also reviewed the installation of CCTV cameras and other logistical measures to ensure smooth operations during dispatch and collection. On the occasion, the DEO met with the polling parties who were being dispatched to their respective polling stations across the constituency. He interacted with the teams, appreciated their dedication, and encouraged them to perform their duties with utmost professionalism, neutrality, and commitment to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process.

He emphasized seamless coordination between civil and security agencies to facilitate a peaceful, transparent, and hassle-free polling process, in strict compliance with the guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI). The DEO reiterated that all arrangements have been meticulously put in place for the smooth conduct of polling, ensuring proper logistics, communication, and safety at all polling stations. He urged all citizens of the Constituency to come forward and exercise their democratic right to vote, thereby strengthening the foundation of participatory governance.

Speaking on the occasion, the DEO informed that voter slips serve as an important facilitative document, but in cases where a voter slip is not available, voters can establish their identity using any of the 13 documents approved by the Election Commission of India (ECI) viz.  Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC), Aadhaar Card, MNREGA Job Card, Passbook with photograph issued by a bank or post office, Health Insurance Smart Card issued under the Ministry of Labour scheme, Driving Licence, PAN Card, Smart Card issued by RGI under NPR, Indian Passport, Pension Document with photograph, Service Identity Card with photograph issued to employees by Central/State Government, PSUs or Public Limited Companies, Official Identity Cards issued to MPs/MLAs/MLCs, and the Unique Disability ID (UDID) Card issued by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. He said these provisions ensure that no eligible voter is deprived of their right to vote due to non-availability of a voter slip.

On the occasion, the DEO appreciated the dedicated efforts of the entire election machinery and reaffirmed that the District Administration Budgam is fully prepared to ensure free, fair, transparent, and peaceful elections.