DEO Poonch convenes meeting to finalize security for Counting Day on 8 October

POONCH, OCTOBER 05: District Election Officer (DEO) Poonch, Vikas Kundal chaired a meeting today to finalize the security and logistical arrangements for the counting of votes scheduled on October 8.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including SSP Mumtaz Ahmad, ADC Mustafa Malik, ACR, SDM Mendhar, Returning Officers (ROs) of Haveli, Surankote, and Mendhar, SDPO Mendhar and representatives from various security agencies.

DEO emphasized the need for flawless coordination among all departments to ensure that the counting process is conducted in a secure and transparent manner. The counting will be held at the Dina Nath Rafiq Memorial Model Higher Secondary School (Girls), Poonch, for all three Assembly Constituencies.

SSP Mumtaz Ahmad briefed the DEO on the comprehensive security plan, which includes multi-layered security at the counting centre, checkpoints at key locations, and adequate deployment of police personnel to maintain order. Representatives from various security agencies also assured their full cooperation, pledging to keep the area under close surveillance throughout the day. Only authorized personnel will be allowed inside the centre, in accordance with strict guidelines set by the Election Commission.

As part of the broader preparations, a robust three-tier security system has been arranged for the counting centre in Poonch. Authorities have completed all necessary preparations to ensure that the counting proceeds smoothly and securely.

Infrastructure and safety arrangements have also been put in place, including basic amenities like washrooms and drinking water, fire safety precautions, and the presence of medical teams on standby for any emergencies on the counting day.