KATHUA:  District Election Officer (DEO) Kathua, Dr. Rakesh Minhas (Deputy Commissioner Kathua), today chaired a key meeting with Sector Officers and Sector Police Officers in the Office of the Returning Officer for the 63-Bani Assembly Constituency to review the preparedness for the upcoming election.

During the meeting, it was decided that polling parties assigned to 94 polling stations within the 63-Bani AC – 33 in Lohai Malhar and 61 in Bani – will be paired at Government Degree College (GDC), Kathua. These teams will be dispatched for polling on September 29, 2024, and are expected to reach their respective locations in Bani and Lohai Malhar by the evening of the same day.

The DEO directed the Returning Officer, Bani to ensure appropriate lodging and boarding arrangements for the polling parties assigned to Bani. Similarly, the RO for Billawar will oversee lodging and boarding for those assigned to Lohai Malhar.

As decided, on September 30th, the polling parties for the 61 stations in Bani and 33 stations in Lohai Malhar will be deployed to conduct polling, which is scheduled for October 1, 2024. Following the polling, the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will be returned and deposited at GDC Bani and GDC Billawar. On the following day, all EVMs will be transported to GDC Kathua for the counting of votes.

Dr. Minhas emphasized the crucial role of Sector Officers and Sector Police Officers, reminding them of their responsibilities at their respective polling stations. "Ensuring transparent polling process, maintaining fairness and neutrality at all times is the primary job of teams”. “Strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to influence or intimidate voters." he further stated.

The DEO also addressed concerns and queries raised by the Sector Officers and Sector Police Officers, ensuring clarity on all aspects of the polling process. The Returning Officer for the 63-Bani Assembly Constituency, Giasul Haq, and Assistant Returning Officer, Predhyum Attri, were also present at the meeting.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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