General & Expenditure Observers review polling arrangements in AC-55 Banihal

RAMBAN, SEPTEMBER 16: In preparation for the upcoming Assembly Election 2024, the General Observer Himanshu Kumar Rai, along with Expenditure Observer Sulekh Chand Jain, today conducted an extensive review of the election arrangements in Assembly Constituency- 55 Banihal. Their visit aimed at ensuring smooth dispatch of polling parties and the effective implementation of all necessary logistical and security arrangements.

During the visit, the General Observer met with the Returning Officer Banihal, Rizwan Asgar to assess the preparedness for dispatching polling parties. A detailed review of the stay arrangements for polling personnel was conducted, ensuring that appropriate food and lodging provisions are in place, especially for those staying overnight. Additionally, the allotment of polling stations to micro observers was discussed to ensure effective monitoring of the polling process.

The dispatch plan for polling staff was a focal point of the discussions and the General Observer visited Lambar Ground to personally inspect the transport arrangements. While there, the Observer interacted with the Nodal Officer for Transport, receiving updates on the vehicle availability and scheduling for the movement of polling parties in AC-55 Banihal.

The General Observer also visited the strong room established at Government Higher Secondary School Banihal to review the plan for the distribution of polling materials to the polling parties. Special attention was given to the arrangements for the early morning dispatch of polling staff to their respective polling stations.

The Expenditure Observer also met with representatives of various candidates to address their concerns related to the movement and activities of the Static Surveillance Teams (SST) and Flying Squads (FST). Mr. Jain provided reassurances that the teams would operate transparently and fairly, ensuring adherence to the Model Code of Conduct while facilitating a smooth election process.