Abhishek Sharma assumes charge as DC Rajouri; Reviews preparations for upcoming Legislative Assembly Elections

RAJOURI, AUGUST 16: Abhishek Sharma has taken over as the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Rajouri, succeeding Om Prakash Bhagat, who has been transferred and posted as Director of Skill Development, J&K.

Immediately upon assuming office, the Deputy Commissioner, who also holds the role of District Election Officer (DEO), convened a crucial meeting with Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) and all nodal officers to ensure the smooth conduct of the upcoming Legislative Assembly Elections in Rajouri district. The meeting focused on reviewing the district’s preparedness and finalizing key arrangements.

During the meeting, the DEO underscored the importance of efficient manpower management, directing the concerned nodal officer to verify the manpower list within one day. To facilitate the election process, it was decided that a control room would be established immediately.

Special emphasis was placed on the polling stations, particularly those housed within Education Department buildings.

The concerned officers were instructed to inspect these stations to ensure that Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) are available. For polling stations located outside of Education Department buildings, a detailed report is to be submitted within 24 hours.

Additionally, the formation of Static Surveillance Teams (SST) and Flying Squads (FST) was discussed, with three teams to be constituted in each constituency. These teams will play a crucial role in maintaining law and order during the elections.

The meeting also addressed media-related concerns, including the establishment of a Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) to monitor and check cases of paid news. All other necessary measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections were thoroughly discussed.

The District Election Officer also directed all Returning Officers (ROs), Assistant Returning Officers (AROs), and nodal officers to rigorously review their preparedness for their respective assignments. He emphasized that the Model Code of Conduct is now in effect and instructed all concerned officers to ensure its full implementation.

The meeting was attended by ADC Rajouri, Rajeev Kumar Khajuria; ADC Sunderbani, Rajeev Magotra; ADC Nowshera, Babu Ram Tandan; Dy DEO, Shakeel Mir; EXEN PWD (R&B) Nowshera, VK Raina; and all other AROs, Nodal officers, and concerned officers who participated through Google Meet.