Election Observers assess arrangement for upcoming Assembly Election in Ganderbal

GANDERBAL, SEPTEMBER 21: The General Observer, R. Lakshmanan; Expenditure Observer, Ashok Gautam and Police Observer Bipin Shankar rao Ahire today held a joint meeting here in the Conference Hall of Mini Secretariat to assess and finalize the arrangements for Assembly Elections-2024 in the district.

The meeting was attended by District Election Officer (DEO), Shyambir; SSP Ganderbal, WasimQadri; Additional District Development Commissioner, Mushtaq Ahmad Simnani; ASP Ganderbal, Aijaz Ahmad; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Gulzar Ahmad; ROs, Dy DEO, CPO and other Nodal Officers.

At the outset, the Observers took a detailed review of arrangements including Marking of electoral rolls, status of home voting, Postal ballot, Voter slip and EPIC distribution, transport plan, queue management on poll day, webcasting in polling stations, Material Management, arrangements for poll parties, AMF status and discussed various other crucial aspects related to the conduct of Assembly elections in the district.

The General Observer emphasized the importance of efficient queue management on polling day, especially at multiple polling stations or where the voter count exceeds 1000 to ensure a smooth and orderly voting process. He directed officials to ensure that adequate arrangements are in place so that voters do not experience any delays or discomfort while casting their votes.

Regarding webcasting in polling stations, the Observers instructed that the proper positioning of cameras should be ensured in all polling stations. Webcasting is a crucial measure to maintain transparency and vigilance during polling, and the officials were urged to implement these arrangements effectively.

Meanwhile, the Observers also thoroughly reviewed the arrangements put up for DCRCs established in Degree College Ganderbal for Ganderbal Assembly Constituency and Degree College Kangan for Kangan Assembly Constituency.

The Nodal Officer for Expenditure Monitoring provided an update on the regular monitoring of election expenses for contesting candidates. He informed that notices have already been issued to candidates found violating the guidelines set by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

The Observers reiterated the importance of strict adherence to ECI guidelines to ensure transparency and accountability in the election process.

The Observers stressed the need for a proactive approach and urged all stakeholders to maintain continuous cooperation to ensure that the elections are conducted in a free, fair, and participatory manner in Ganderbal.