DEO Rajouri briefs media on Polling Day preparedness

RAJOURI, SEPTEMBER 24: District Election Officer (DEO) Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, today briefed the media persons regarding the district’s preparedness for the Polling, scheduled for tomorrow. The DEO listed various steps taken to ensure smooth, free, and fair elections in the district, with an emphasis on transparency, security and compliance with the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines.

The DEO informed that 745 teams have been dispatched to different polling stations across the district to facilitate the electoral process. Making a significant development, for the first time in any election Rajouri will witness 100% webcasting in all polling stations, a directive issued by the Election Commission of India to ensure transparency.
In addition to webcasting, 468 micro observers have been deployed across the district, ensuring real-time monitoring of election activities at different polling stations.
Special arrangements have been made for remote polling stations, where two cameras have been installed—one inside and another outside each polling station—to further enhance the transparency and accountability of the voting process.

To strengthen enforcement efforts, Flying Squads Teams (FST) and Static Surveillance Teams (SST) have been deployed and are operational round the clock. These teams are not only patrolling but are also being monitored through CCTV cameras installed at strategic locations throughout the district, ensuring that all activities are in line with the Model Code of Conduct.

The DEO also informed about the restrictions imposed for the 48-hour silence period preceding the elections, ensuring that no election campaigning is conducted within this time frame as per the ECI guidelines.
During the press briefing, the DEO disclosed that several complaints were received from various areas of the district, all of which are being promptly addressed. A complaint from Budhal regarding the alleged distribution of cash and liquor was received and immediately forwarded to the Returning Officer and police authorities for necessary action. Another complaint concerning vehicle checking is currently under investigation. Additionally, a complaint regarding the obstruction of a vehicle was swiftly dealt with, with FST teams reaching the location to address the situation.

The DEO assured the public that the directions of the Election Commission of India are being followed in letter and spirit and the district administration is committed to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections. He reiterated that all efforts are being made to ensure that the electoral process remains impartial and that any violations will be dealt with strictly.
The DEO also appealed to the public to cooperate with the authorities and report any instances of violations or misconduct to ensure the smooth conduct of elections in the district.