2nd Randomization of EVMs successfully conducted at Budgam
BUDGAM: For the smooth conduct of the upcoming General Legislative Assembly Elections 2024, the second Randomization of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for all 5 Assembly Constituencies of Budgam district was successfully carried out today, here.
The randomization process was conducted in the presence of General Observers Giriwar Dayal Singh, Kanhuraj H Bagate, Nitesh K Patil, DEO Budgam Akshay Labroo and the Returning Officers for the all five Assembly constituencies Representatives of contesting candidates were also in attendance, ensuring transparency as per the Election Commission’s guidelines.
Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) of all 5 Assembly Segments, Deputy DEO, Nodal Officer ETPBS, and other senior officials from the District Election Authority were also present during the process.
The copies of lists of randomized CUs/BUs and VVPATs were handed over to the representatives of the political parties/ candidates present in the meeting during the randomization. Entire process was videographed as per guidelines.
General Observers and DEO Budgam also interacted with representatives of political parties/ candidates to take feedback on the election-related matters, and ensure transparent electoral processes.
The DEO said that the District Administration remains committed to the successful execution of all election-related activities in strict compliance with the rules and procedures of the Election Commission of India.
General Observer interacts with Nodal Officers, reviews Election preparedness for Baramulla & Gulmarg ACs
BARAMULLA: General Observer for 10-Baramulla and 11-Gulmarg Assembly Constituencies, Aparna U conducted an important interaction with all Nodal officers today at Dakbanglow Baramulla.
The meeting was organized to review the arrangements put in place to ensure a smooth and transparent election process.
During the session, District Election Officer (DEO) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, provided a detailed briefing on the preparations undertaken across the district. He emphasized that all necessary measures, including logistical, administrative, and security arrangements, have been meticulously planned to facilitate a free and fair electoral process.
Aparna U stressed the importance of coordination and adherence to the Election Commission's guidelines. She urged the officers to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing any potential challenges that may arise. The focus remained on ensuring that every eligible voter in both Baramulla and Gulmarg constituencies is able to participate in the democratic process without any hindrances.
The Observer expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far and encouraged the officers to continue working with dedication. She reiterated the Election Commission’s commitment to conducting peaceful and transparent elections in Jammu & Kashmir.
Deputy District Election Officer Baramulla, Ab Rehman Bhat, Returning Officer 10-Baramulla, Arshid Ahmad Khan, Returning Officer 11-Gulmarg, Syed Altaf Hussain Musvi, besides all Nodal Officers were present during the meeting.
Police Observer inspects Polling Stations across Shopian & Zainapora Constituencies
Conducts comprehensive review of security protocol
SHOPIAN: Police Observer Shopian, Ravi D Channannavar conducted an extensive visit to various polling stations across Shopian and Zainapora constituencies.
The purpose of the visit was to review and assess the security measures in place ahead of the upcoming elections along with assessing the assured minimum facilities.
During his tour, the Observer visited several locations including Berthipora, Tukroo, GGHSS Shopian, Balpora, DK Pora, Imam Sahib, Nagbal, Zainapora, Watchi, Safanagri, Babapora, etc to inspect polling stations.
Police as well as security establishments were briefed about their role and responsibilities in the election process to neutralise any nefarious designs of anti-national elements to disrupt peace in the area for greater participation and for the smooth conduct of elections in the district.
The Observer inspected the security arrangements and other preparations essential for ensuring a smooth and peaceful electoral process. He also took stock of the deployment of security personnel, surveillance systems, and other logistics at the polling stations.
He emphasized the need for robust coordination among the security forces and civil administration to tackle any potential challenges and ensure the safety of voters and election staff.
The Police Observer also reviewed crowd management strategies and directed that all entry and exit points at the polling stations be secured to prevent any untoward incidents.
Home Voting records 195 votes on day 01 in all 03 ACs of Kulgam District
ECI guidelines implemented to ensure confidentiality & integrity of the voting process
KULGAM: Utilizing the home voting facility extended by Election Commission of India for inclusive elections, the Senior Citizens (85+) and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) belonging to all three constituencies of District Kulgam today exercised their franchise from the four walls of their homes.
In order to facilitate the elderly and PwD voters, throughout the day the polling teams braved treacherous and steep terrains to reach eligible voters in high-altitude areas.
A total of 195 votes were recorded on day 1st from across all three constituencies of Kulgam District.
The voters who had availed the home voting facility expressed immense gratitude to the ECI for being able to cast their vote without any inconvenience while being at home.
A PwD voter from hilly hamlet Hallen, a voter of AC 38-D.H.Pora shared his joy and appreciation when a polling party visited his home today.
He expressed his overwhelming gratitude for being given the opportunity to cast his vote despite the challenging geography and his inability to reach the polling station on poll day.
Similarly, voters from Devsar, Kulgam, Kund and other areas were delighted to see polling teams arrive at their homes, enabling them to participate in the democratic process without any hardship.
"Haleema Begum from AC 40-Devsar Kulgam, appreciated the Home Voting facility. She shared that it empowered her to exercise her right to vote comfortably.
To ensure smooth polling, special measures were taken to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the voting process during home voting. The message was loud and clear that every vote counts and inclusive participation is the real meaning of democracy.
128 Votes polled on the first day of Home Voting at Shopian
Parties trekked miles to reach home voters
SHOPIAN: On the first day of the Home Voting process in the district, a total of 128 votes were polled today, out of the total 138 votes in both Assembly Constituencies of the district.
Out of total 87 votes in 37- Shopian AC, 77 votes have been polled today, while out of 51 votes in 36- Zainapora, all 51 votes have been polled. Pending voters who could not cast a vote today shall vote on the second day tomorrow.
The polling parties trekked miles to reach the remote villages of home voters and registered their vote in a free and fair manner.
The elderly, above 85 years of age and PwDs were eligible to vote through Home voting due to their incapacity to visit polling stations to vote on poll day. The voters after exercising their franchise appreciated the efforts of the District Election Office, Shopian and Election Commission of India for the novel and empowering initiative.
The voters, after casting their vote, appealed to all the voters of Shopian and Zainpora constituencies to cast their vote on poll day. In their message to voters they reminded them of their zeal to cast their vote despite being incapacitated.
Special Polling staff imparted training at Kupwara & Karnah
KUPWARA: Ahead of the upcoming General Elections to the Legislative Assembly, the preparations for free, fair and transparent elections in Kupwara district are in full swing.
Under the subtle guidance of District Election Officer (DEO) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan, a series of comprehensive election training programs are currently being held to prepare a pool of efficient human resources for the hassle free election process.
On Wednesday, special training sessions on proficient handling of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines for polling staff for special polling stations were held.
The special training sessions for polling staff designated for Pink Polling stations, Polling stations manned by Persons with Disabilities (PWD) staff and Poll staff of Youth manned Polling Stations was successfully conducted today at two locations viz.Town Hall Kupwara and Mini Secretariat Karnah.
The training covered all six constituencies of Kupwara District to impart the necessary training to the designated polling staff on the efficient operation of EVMs and VVPAT machines in the upcoming elections.
On the occasion practical demonstration was given to the participant trainees regarding the functioning of EVMs and VVPAT machines to boost their understanding and proficiency in managing the voting process.
The initiative aimed at equipping the polling staff with the necessary skills to ensure smooth and accessible voting for all citizens, particularly women, PWD voters, and youth. The trained poll staff will play a crucial role in ensuring that these specially-designated polling stations function efficiently during the upcoming elections.
A total of 183 polling staff members of six assembly constituencies of Kupwara district were trained today.
This specialized training aligns with the Election Commission's commitment to fostering inclusive and accessible elections, ensuring that every eligible voter, regardless of gender, physical ability, or age, has the opportunity to cast their vote with ease.
Mega SVEEP campaign to promote Voters Awareness held at Aishmuqam
ANANTNAG: A mega Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) campaign was organized today at Town Hall, Aishmuqam, with the primary goal of fostering voter awareness and promoting participation in the upcoming elections.
The event, held under the overall guidance of District Election Officer (DEO) Anantnag, SF. Hamid was organized by Nodal Officer SVEEP for AC-47 Pahalgam. The campaign attracted an enthusiastic crowd comprising locals, youth, and a diverse range of stakeholders.
The campaign saw active participation from civil society, employees of various departments, Booth Level Officers (BLOs), Booth Level Awareness Groups, and electors from the town and nearby areas.
On the occasion, various activities were conducted to engage the public and spread awareness about the importance of voting. Set against the scenic backdrop of Aishmuqam, the event featured interactive sessions, cultural performances, street plays, and rallies, all aimed at motivating citizens to participate in the democratic process.
Addressing the gathering, the Nodal Officer SVEEP emphasized the significance of each vote in shaping the future, encouraging citizens to make informed decisions. Special emphasis was placed on Voter Education, Informed Voting, and Ethical Voting, stressing the role and responsibility of every voter.
The event also highlighted the importance of involving first-time voters, women, and specially-abled individuals in the electoral process, ensuring inclusive and broader participation.
A series of engaging activities such as quiz competitions, debates, and slogan-writing contests were held under the theme "Every Vote Counts." A pledge-taking ceremony followed, where participants vowed to cast their votes and actively promote voter awareness within their communities. The event culminated with a vibrant mega rally that further energized the public to vote in large numbers in the upcoming elections.
A similar SVEEP campaign organized at Townhall Anantnag was led by the District Nodal Officer SVEEP. This event also saw active participation from Booth Awareness Group (BAG) members and BLOs, emphasizing the collective responsibility in voter education and outreach.
A skit on the importance of voting, performed by Natarang, a renowned dramatic theatre group, added a creative touch to the awareness efforts.
Pertinently, the polling for the Assembly Constituency is slated for 18th September, 2024 in the first phase of polling in Jammu & Kashmir.
General Observers visits Polling Staff Training Centre at GDC (Boys), Pulwama
PULWAMA: The General Observers for Assembly Constituency 34-Pulwama, Manoj Kumar, and 35-Rajpora, Khartade Kalicharan Sudama Rao along with Returning Officer Pulwama, Shahbaz Ahmad Bodha today visited the training centre at Government Degree College (Boys), Pulwama to oversee the ongoing training of polling staff.
During the visit, they reviewed the training processes, ensuring that polling personnel are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct the upcoming Legislative Assembly elections efficiently and transparently.
They interacted with the trainees, stressing the importance of strict adherence to electoral guidelines and protocols to ensure a free and fair election.
The Observers interacted with the trainees and highlighted the importance of adhering to election guidelines to ensure smooth, free and fair elections
The Returning Officer Pulwama also evaluated the logistics and facilities at the centre, expressing satisfaction with the overall preparedness and training arrangements.
General Observer participates in Polling Staff Training programme at Pampore
PULWAMA: The General Observer for Pampore Assembly Constituency, Vadarevu Vinay Chand today participated in a polling staff training session held at the Town Hall, Pampore.
The session aimed at providing comprehensive training to polling personnel for the upcoming Assembly Elections, ensuring they are well-versed with the electoral procedures and protocols.
Among others, the program was attended by the Returning Officer Pampore and other concerned officials, who emphasized the importance of conducting free, fair and transparent elections.

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