Election Observers brief candidates, political representatives about ECI guidelines

REASI, SEPTEMBER 10: As mandated under the guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI), General Observers for AC-56 Gulabgarh (ST) Saroj Kumar Sethi and for AC-57 Reasi and AC-58 Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Avi Prasad along with Police Observer Pradeep Kumar Yadav held a meeting with contesting candidates and representatives of different political parties to inform them about guidelines, do’s, and don’ts of the election process.

District Election Officer (DEO) Vishesh Mahajan, welcomed all observers and representatives of political parties and contesting candidates.

General Observer Avi Prasad informed about various aspects of elections like adherence to model code of conduct (MCC), permissions, Postal ballots, intermediate strong rooms and importance of 12 identity proof documents for voting on the day of poll.

Police Observer Pradeep Kumar Yadav ensured that the observers shall be available 24/7 for any grievances by representatives. General Observer for 56-AC Gulabgarh Saroj Sethi emphasised on free, fair and peaceful elections and the role of political parties in ensuring that. Observers told the members of political parties to feel free to come up to them with any apprehension about any person and assured the same will be dealt with strictly.

The representatives of contesting candidates used the opportunity to clarify their doubts and also discussed a few issues which according to them were of great importance. The Representatives were briefed about C-Vigil app for reporting violations regarding MCC and expenditure and the use of Suvidha app designed for seeking timely permissions.

Observers asked election authorities to provide handbooks to all candidates, both hard and soft copies, and asked political party representatives and candidates to acknowledge receipt of notices communicated to them. Observers highlighted the critical role of political parties for ensuring good and enhanced voter engagement and turnout.

Representatives of various political parties: SSP Gaurav Sikarwar, ADDC Sukhdev Samyal, ADC Kulbushan Khajuria, RO-57 Anshumali Sharma, RO-58 Piyush and others were present.