General Observers reviews Election preparedness in Udhampur

UDHAMPUR, SEPTEMBER 14: In preparation for the General Assembly Elections 2024, General Observers B C Sateesha, S A Raman, Expenditure Observer V Vivekananda and Police Observer Ravi Ranjan Kumar today jointly held a meeting with all Nodal Officers and Returning Officers in Udhampur.

The meeting convened in the Conference Hall of DC Office Complex was aimed at assessing and enhancing election preparedness in the district.

Earlier, District Election Officer Saloni Rai provided a comprehensive overview of the district’s election arrangements, including the availability of EVMs and VVPATs, transport management, functioning of dispatch centers, home voting options, postal ballots and the deployment of teams. They also reviewed the status of polling staff training, enforcement of Model Code of Conduct, the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee, vigilance on expenditure by political parties and candidates and measures to manage paid news.

The General Observers were briefed on the provision of basic minimum facilities at polling stations, the functioning of the expenditure monitoring cell and the training of polling personnel. Additional discussions covered the appointment and training of polling staff, randomization of polling personnel and Electronic Voting Machines and other essential aspects of election management.

Special emphasis was placed on the effective implementation of Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation activities across the district.

Returning Officers and Nodal Officers were urged to strictly follow the latest guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India to ensure smooth electoral processes.

The General Observers directed election teams to enhance their readiness for the smooth conduct of the elections, stressing the importance of coordination. They recommended thorough theoretical and practical training for polling staff and advised Nodal Officers to focus on sensitizing vulnerable areas to encourage voter participation.

The Observers also reviewed security arrangements at strong rooms, EVM collection and dispatch centers, and the accommodation provided for polling personnel. They expressed appreciation for the efforts of the District Election Officer and her team in ensuring poll preparedness and the successful implementation of SVEEP programs.

Later, the Observers also visited the Media centre and District Control room.