Election preparations intensify across Jammu & Kashmir ahead of upcoming Assembly elections

General Observer for 34- Pulwama AC visits Distribution cum Collection Centre at GDC Boys Pulwama

PULWAMA: The General Observer for 34-Pulwama Assembly Constituency, Manoj Kumar today visited the Distribution cum Collection Centre located at Government Degree College Boys, Pulwama.

The visit was conducted in connection with the commencement of the commissioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) for Assembly Constituency 34-Pulwama.

The commissioning process, which began today, is being carried out under strict guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure the highest level of transparency and security in the handling of EVMs and VVPATs. During the visit, the General Observer closely monitored the activities at the Centre, interacting with the candidates and their representatives and representatives of political parties, officials and engineers present and reviewed the adherence to the ECI’s protocols.

General Observer for Tral AC monitors Commissioning of EVMs, visits Training Centre

PULWAMA: The General Observer for Tral Assembly Constituency, Brajesh Narain Singh, conducted a detailed inspection of the commissioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at ITI Tral today.

The process, held in the presence of representatives from various political parties, took place in the secure environment of the strong room, ensuring transparency and adherence to the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines.

In addition, the General Observer made an unannounced visit to the training centre at Government Degree College (GDC) Tral, where he oversaw the training sessions being conducted for the election staff. He closely reviewed the training being provided to employees to ensure they are well-prepared for the smooth conduct of the upcoming elections.

Singh emphasized the critical importance of conducting free, fair and transparent elections, urging officials to follow all prescribed procedures to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

Expenditure Observer Shopian-AC visits SSTs sites & police nakas

Directs for strict monitoring at checkpoints to curb illegal activities

SHOPIAN: The Expenditure Observer, Nelapatla Ashok Babu today conducted a tour of Gagren, Reshnagri and Vehil areas of the Shopian AC to check the working of Police nakas and Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs).

The visit was part of the preparations for the elections scheduled for 18 September 2024 in the district.

Expenditure Observer interacted with Police officials and officials of Static Surveillance Teams (SST) and directed them to strictly adhere to the Election Commission's guidelines, emphasizing the need to curb illegal expenditures, including cash distribution and the use of drugs and liquor.

The Observer instructed the teams to maintain strict monitoring at all entry points of the district, ensuring that no illegal activities compromise the electoral process.

DEO Kupwara conducts inspection of DECR, RO office Kupwara

KUPWARA: The District Election Officer (DEO) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan today conducted an inspection of the District Election Control Room (DECR) Kupwara and RO’s Office of 3-Kupwara.

The aim of the inspection was to evaluate the smooth functioning of DECR.

During the inspection, DEO assessed the operations of DECR and inspected the status of static surveillance teams via CCTV surveillance and FSTs (Flying Squad Teams) via GPS tracking system.

She also took an appraisal of the strong room. The DEO also visited RO office 3- Kupwara and meticulously inspected its functioning. She checked the documentation process for making nominations for the 3rd phase of elections, checklists for candidates and facilitation counters for candidates.

Ayushi Sudan emphasized on facilitating fair and transparent elections, reaffirming the administration’s dedication to ensuring a smooth and impartial electoral process in all the six assembly constituencies of Kupwara district.

Vibrant & engaging SVEEP program held at Tral

PULWAMA: A vibrant and engaging Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program was successfully conducted today at Boys Higher Secondary School (BHSS) Tral, Pulwama to promote voter education and encourage active community participation in the democratic process ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.

The program emphasized the importance of empowering every citizen to make informed decisions and ensure that every eligible voter exercises their fundamental right to vote.

With a strong focus on inclusivity, the initiative urged voters to come forward and participate, ensuring that no voter is left behind.

The SVEEP activities in Pulwama have successfully fostered voter awareness encouraging mass participation, reinforcing the essence of a vibrant democracy. As more citizens become informed, the democratic foundation grows stronger, ensuring that every voice is heard and every vote counts.

B’pora Admin conducts comprehensive Training for P2s & P3s

BANDIPORA: The District Election Office Bandipora today conducted a training programme at the Mini Secretariat for P2s and P3s assigned for the upcoming Assembly Elections 2024.

The training programme was designed to equip the officials with the essential skills and knowledge required for their duties.

The programme was attended by P2s and P3s who were selected following the first randomization process, underscoring the commitment to a well-organized and efficient election process.

The training covered a range of topics, including electoral procedures, handling of election materials, and management of polling stations.

Later, an interactive session was also held besides practical simulations to provide hands-on experience and enhance the preparedness of officials and to ensure that poll personnel are confident and capable in their roles.

SVEEP programme to raise Voter Awareness conducted at GDC Sumbal

BANDIPORA:  Government Degree College (GDC) Sumbal on Thursday organised a SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) programme to raise voter awareness among participants. 

The event, held under the patronage of Principal Professor (Dr.) Shabeena Iqbal Shawl, aimed at creating awareness among first-time voters about the importance of their participation in the electoral process.

The programme saw enthusiastic participation from both faculty and students, who engaged in insightful discussions about the role of voting in strengthening democracy. 

In his address, Prof. Manzoor Ahmed, SVEEP Coordinator, provided an in-depth overview of the historical evolution of Indian democracy and elaborated on the significance of the ‘Right to Vote’ in ensuring a vibrant and functional democratic system.

He emphasized that first-time voters hold a unique responsibility in shaping the future of the nation, urging them to exercise their franchise.

SVEEP activities to educate Voters continue in full swing across Baramulla

BARAMULLA: The District Election Office of Baramulla is actively conducting Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) activities aimed at educating voters and enhancing electoral participation across all assembly constituencies of the district. Special attention is being given to first-time voters to ensure they are fully informed and ready to participate in the upcoming elections.

The SVEEP campaign includes a variety of initiatives such as rallies, street plays (nukkad nataks), door-to-door awareness programs, and the distribution of informational materials like voter guides and stickers on commercial vehicles. Mobile awareness vans are also being deployed to remote areas of the district. Schools, colleges, and community centers are actively participating to help raise awareness about the electoral process.

These activities focus on promoting ethical voting, ensuring all eligible voters are included in the electoral rolls, and providing guidance on voter ID applications and corrections.

These efforts aim to strengthen democratic participation and ensure a higher voter turnout in the district.

Commissioning of EVM / VVPATs commences at Shopian

251 EVMs to be commissioned along with 125 reserve EMVs

SHOPIAN: The commissioning of EVM/ VVPATs commenced today at Shopian in EVM Strong Rooms, located at Mini Secretariat for Assembly Constituencies of 36- Zainapora and 37- Shopian.

The exercise is being conducted in the presence of Returning Officers and recognised agents of political parties and contesting candidates of the district.

The process is also being supervised by concerned General Observers and monitored at EVM rooms by a joint team of officials and recognised agents of political parties and contesting candidates.

A total of 129 EVMs with reserve of 64 EVMs shall be commissioned for the Zainapora Assembly Constituency while 122 EVMs with reserve of 61 EVMs shall be commissioned for Shopian Assembly Constituency during the process.

After the culmination of the process, the commissioned EVMs shall be stored in Strong rooms under strict security vigilance and monitoring for which elaborate and foolproof arrangements are in place. The strong rooms shall be sealed as per protocol and stored EVMs handed over to Polling parties at the time of despatch on pre- poll day.

EVM Viewing Control Room established at Shopian

Political parties/ contesting candidates asked to depute agents for monitoring of EVM Strong rooms

SHOPIAN: The District Election Office, Shopian today established EVM Viewing Control Room at Shopian in order to facilitate political parties and contesting candidates to view and monitor EVM Strong Rooms.

The Control Room has been established in Room No.231/B2, located at second Floor, at Mini Secretariat Shopian and is managed by dedicated staff, who assist in keeping close watch over the strong rooms, round the clock through two AV Displays.

The EVM Strong Room is under surveillance of CCTVs with 360% view. The political parties and contesting candidates have been requested to depute their recognised agents to the Control Room for viewing and monitoring the EVM Strong Rooms.

General Observer conducts extensive tour of 45-Srigufwara- Bijbehara Assembly Constituency

ANANTNAG: General Observer, Rishi Garg  today conducted an inspection of various polling stations in the Assembly Constituency of 45-Srigufwara-Bijbehara.

The visit covered polling stations in Zone Khiram, Nowshera, Darigund, and Srigufwara.

During the visit, Garg engaged with the general public and students to ensure transparency and address any concerns. He also reviewed the ongoing commissioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at the Strong Room established at Government Degree College Bijbehara.

In his interactions with the ECIL engineers and representatives of political parties present, Garg emphasized the importance of adhering to Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines. He instructed the Returning Officer (RO) and Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) to complete the commissioning process in strict compliance with ECI protocols.

Pertinently, the polling for the Assembly Constituency is slated for 18th September, 2024 in the first phase of polling in Jammu & Kashmir.

General Observer assesses Arrangements for Kokernag Assembly Constituency

ANANTNAG:  The General Observer for ST 42-Kokernag Assembly Constituency, Sudhanshu Mohan today paid a visit to the strong room established at Government Degree College Kokernag.

The purpose of the inspection was to ensure that all preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections are on track.

During the visit, Mohan reviewed the commissioning of the strong room and assessed various arrangements made to secure the election materials. The observer examined the facilities to ensure they meet the required standards for safety and efficiency. The strong room is a crucial component of the electoral process, designed to safeguard ballot boxes and other election materials.

The Observer's inspection focused on verifying that all protocols and procedures are in place to guarantee a smooth and secure election process. He also addressed any potential concerns and provided recommendations to enhance the arrangements as necessary.

Notably, the polling for the Assembly Constituency is slated for 18th September, 2024 in the first phase of polling.

Election Expenditure Observer conducts Inspection of Expenditure Registers at Shopian

SHOPIAN: The first inspection of expenditure registers for the 36- Zainapora and 37- Shopian constituencies was successfully conducted today at the Circuit House Shopian.

The inspection was led by Expenditure Observer Nelapatla Ashok Babu, assisted by Nodal Officer Expenditure Muzaffar Ahmad Rather and two AEOs.

Each candidate's expenditure register was thoroughly checked and signed to mark the successful completion of the first inspection.

During the inspection, Expenditure Observer emphasized the importance of maintaining up-to-date expenditure records and advised all candidates and their authorized agents to accurately reflect their expenditure and ensure that registers are meticulously maintained.

The Observer also highlighted the need to keep all supporting statements, vouchers, bills, and invoices readily available for reference and reiterated the commitment to providing a level playing field for all candidates.

He assured them that various agencies are actively monitoring activities to ensure a fair and conducive environment for electioneering and offered his assistance in managing expenditure records and assured candidates that the entire machinery is available for support whenever needed.

Following the inspection, the Nodal Officer Expenditure, Muzaffar Ahmad provided a detailed overview of expenditure management as per Election Commission of India guidelines.

AEO clarified queries raised by the candidates. All the queries and doubts and concerns raised were promptly resolved.

Candidates expressed their gratitude to the Expenditure Observer and his team for the efficient and supportive inspection process.

Police Observer for Reasi inspects strong rooms, holds meeting with SSP Reasi

REASI: Police Observer for District Reasi Pradeep Kumar Yadav conducted a thorough inspection of Govt. Polytechnic College, Reasi where the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will be stored after the elections in the strong rooms of AC-57 Reasi and AC-58 Shri Mata Vaishno Devi.

He also held a meeting with SSP Reasi, Gaurav Sikarwar along with other police officers to review security arrangements in Reasi.

The inspection focused on the evaluation of security protocols, CCTVs, secure logistical arrangements at Strong Room.

The aim of inspection was to ensure that all arrangements are in place for the secure storage and management of election materials and to assess the preparedness of the district for the Assembly elections 2024.

He also checked the accommodation provided to security forces and instructed officials to provide adequate facility to them.

During the meeting, Police Observer laid special emphasis on fortifying security measures to safeguard against potential threats to ensure  security measures are in place ahead of the upcoming election.

He was accompanied by SSP Reasi Gaurav Sikarwar, DySP Hq Neeraj Padyar, ARO Suresh Singh, and other concerned Officers and officials.

Expenditure Observer reviews election arrangements in Samba

SAMBA: Expenditure Observer for District Samba, Karthik Manickam M, conducted a thorough inspection of the preparations for the Assembly Elections-2024 today.

His visit aimed at ensuring the smooth, free, fair and transparent conduct of the elections, focusing on the various key arrangements made to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

District Election Officer (DEO), Rajesh Sharma briefed the Expenditure Observer about the district’s geographical spread and the detailed planning undertaken by the District Administration and the Police Department to ensure transparency and fairness in all three assembly constituencies in Samba.

The briefing outlined the meticulous efforts in place to guarantee a successful election.

The review meeting was attended by several key officials, including SSP Vinay Kumar, ADC Jagdish Singh, Dy DEO Harvinder Singh and the ROs for the district’s three assembly constituencies along with key District nodal officers appointed for various election related duties.

Nidhi Gupta, Nodal Officer for Election Expenditure Monitoring (EEM), also briefed the Expenditure Observer on the various arrangements implemented to monitor the election expenditures of candidates in each of the three constituencies. She provided detailed insights into the strategies in place to ensure strict adherence to expenditure limits and compliance with election expenditure guidelines.

During the visit, Expenditure Observer Karthik Manickam, accompanied by DEO and SSP reviewed critical election infrastructure at the District Administrative Complex in Nandani Hills, Samba.

The Observer inspected the 24x7 Media Certification & Monitoring Committee (MCMC) Cell to ensure its effectiveness in monitoring media coverage and enforcing the election code of conduct.

Additionally, the 24x7 Election Control Room was thoroughly evaluated to assess its readiness for managing real-time election-related issues and ensuring a swift response to any developments during the election period.

2nd Phase election training held across 5 Assembly Constituencies of District Rajouri

RAJOURI: The second round of election training session was successfully conducted today across all 5 Assembly Constituencies (ACs) of District Rajouri, focusing on preparations for the upcoming Assembly Elections.

The training programs, organized at Government Degree College (GDC) Kalakote for AC 83 Kalakote-Sunderbani, GDC Nowshera for AC 84, GDC Rajouri for AC 85, Dak Bunglow Koteranka for AC 86 Budhal, and GDC Thanamandi for AC 87, were facilitated by dedicated teams of District Level Master Trainers (DLMTs) and Assembly Level Master Trainers (ALMTs). The sessions, coordinated by Dr. Naseem Ahmed, Associate Professor and Nodal Officer for Election Training, aimed to equip employees from various departments with the essential knowledge and operational skills necessary for effective election management.

To ensure comprehensive coverage, the training sessions were held both in the morning and evening, accommodating the schedules of all participants. A significant portion of the training focused on the operation and management of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs). Trainees were guided through detailed PowerPoint presentations and hands-on practice sessions, enabling them to gain confidence in handling these machines under various scenarios.

The DLMTs and ALMTs also provided briefings on the election process and emphasized the importance of adhering to guidelines and protocols essential for maintaining the secrecy, integrity, and transparency of the election process. This focus is vital in upholding public trust in the democratic system.

DLMTs included Shamim Ahmed, Altaf Javaid (Senior Lecturer), and Mohd Qasim (Senior Lecturer).

The ALMTs, including Anit Khajuria, Kapil Dev Sharma, Devinder Kumar Khajuria, Prabinder Kumar Sharma, Rajesh Khokhar, Harmeet Singh, Rohit Kumar, Abdul Shakoor, Abdul Razia Malik, Sushil Sharma, Zafar Iqbal Rather, and Yassir Bashir, ensured that the employees received comprehensive and practical instruction throughout the sessions.

A total of 3,751 employees attended the training sessions across the district in all five Assembly Constituencies.

These training sessions mark a significant step in ensuring that all election officials are well-prepared to conduct the upcoming Assembly Elections smoothly and effectively.

SVEEP Awareness Drive, Nukkad Natak held at GHS Mawa

SAMBA: An awareness drive was organized today at Govt. High School Mawa in Rajpura Constituency as part of the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative.

The event aimed to enhance voter awareness, with a special focus on facilitating Divyangjan (persons with disabilities) in the upcoming elections. The school, designated as a Special Polling Station for Divyangjan, symbolizes efforts to ensure accessible and inclusive elections for all citizens.

A Nukkad Natak (street play) was also performed, highlighting the importance of voter participation and the electoral process, engaging the students and the community in an interactive manner.

The event was organized by Nodal Officers Kewal Krishan (CEO Samba) and Ekshu Sharma (Assistant Director Handicrafts Samba), who have been actively involved in the voter awareness campaigns under SVEEP.

Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Champa Devi was the Chief Guest. In her address, the Chief Guest lauded the efforts of the Election Commission and the district administration for their consistent focus on increasing electoral participation, especially among marginalized groups such as Divyangjan. She encouraged the students and community members to spread awareness about the importance of voting and contributing to the democratic process.

General Election Observer inspects Strong Room, Polling Stations in Surankote Assembly Constituency

POONCH: The General Election Observer for the 88-Surankote and 89-Haveli Assembly constituencies, Solai Bharathi Dasan, along with District Election Officer (DEO) Vikas Kundal conducted an extensive inspection of the Strong Rooms and Election cells in both Surankote and Haveli Assembly Constituencies to assess preparedness for the upcoming Assembly elections.

During the visit, DEO Vikas Kundal, provided a comprehensive briefing to the observer, covering all essential aspects for successful elections. The observer stressed the importance of a well-structured election management plan, including delivering Assured Minimum Facilities at all polling stations as mandated by the Election Commission of India (ECI). The need for effective voter facilitation through booth-level counters was also underscored.

They inspected Key facilities, including road access, water, ramps, power supply, and security arrangements. Special focus was given to equipping critical polling stations to handle the voting process smoothly. The observer also visited the 24x7 Integrated Election Control Room at the District Election Office, the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) and the Media Cell, which operates round the clock to manage various aspects of the electoral process and provide relevant information to the electorate.

Earlier, a meeting was held with the Returning Officers (RO) for Surankote and Haveli (Poonch) Assembly constituencies, and other Election Officers, where the observer emphasized strict adherence to ECI guidelines and the importance of following election protocols meticulously.

DEO Poonch, Vikas Kundal, revealed that the District Election Authority has completed all preparatory works to ensure a smooth election process. He announced the establishment of several special Pink and Green polling stations and confirmed that the required personnel, including presiding officers and Micro Observers have been appointed for 151 polling stations in the Surankote constituency and 190 in Haveli.

A total of 113,572 voters, comprising 58,510 male and 55,062 female voters, have been registered in the Surankote Assembly constituency, while 129,122 voters which include 65,943 male and 63,179 female have been registered in the Haveli Assembly Constituency.

Assembly Elections-2024: DEO reviews Security measures in Kishtwar

KISHTWAR: District Election Officer (DEO)   (District Magistrate) Kishtwar  Rajesh Kumar Shavan on Wednesday chaired a crucial  meeting with Police & CAPF Commandants to review the  security plan/measures taken for the smooth conduct of Assembly Elections in the district.

The meeting was attended by the Senior Superintendent of Police Abdul Qayoom, all Commandants/Dy Commandants of the ITBP, CRPF, SSB and Nodal Officers deployed on election duty.

The discussions emphasized coordinated strategies for maintaining law and order, ensuring incident-free elections in the district.The deliberations underscored the importance of synergy among security forces to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections in a free, fair and secure manner.

The officers and officials of Police, paramilitary forces, Election Department delivered a detailed presentation on the current security environment, law enforcement readiness, and election preparedness during ongoing the Assembly elections in the district.

The DEO stressed the importance of robust security arrangements in and around roads and security of critical Polling areas within the district, such as Dachhan, Marwah, Warwan, Kuntwara and Bonjwah etc, ensuring high-level checking with minimal inconvenience to commuters. He also emphasized the need for additional focus on Critical polling stations.

The DM highlighted the enforcement of effective communication Plan, besides coordination among various agencies.

A brief Orientation Session of ECI guidelines pertaining to the Police and CAPF was also held.

The DM highlighted the importance of joint efforts between police and sector officers, during the election period. He advised them to make frequent visits to sensitive areas, to restore the confidence of the electors for a free, fair and secure election environment, treating it like a moment of festivity.

The work of Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs)/Flying Surveillance Teams (FSTs), checkpoints was also discussed in the meeting.

Voter Awareness Program Held in Nigeen Nad Kund

KULGAM: Under the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program, a significant voter awareness programme was organized in the remote area of Nigeen Nad Kund in Kulgam.

This initiative aimed to raise awareness among the Scheduled Tribe (ST) population about the importance of voting and their active participation in the democratic process.

The event was part of the ongoing efforts to ensure that every section of society, particularly those in far-off areas, is well-informed about their voting rights and responsibilities.

Participants were educated by SVEEP nodal officer and other officers on the significance of their vote, how it contributes to strengthening democracy, and the role of each individual in shaping the future of their region and the country.

District Pencak Silat Championship Held at Higher Secondary School Ajas Under SVEEP Initiative

BANDIPORA: As part of the SVEEP (Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation) initiative the District Pencak Silat Championship was today organised at Higher Secondary School Ajas.

The event merged sportsmanship with civic engagement, underscoring the importance of both physical and democratic participation.

The event showcasing  the skills and sportsmanship of local athletes was attended by District Election Officer Bandipora, Manzoor Ahmad Qadri; Chief Education Officer Kishore Kumar; Deputy CEO;  Principal Higher Secondary School, students and other stakeholders.

The event also witnessed participation of  Padmashree Faisal Ali Dar, the Brand Ambassador for SVEEP activities who highlighted the significance of elections as a cornerstone of democracy. 

Addressing the participants, the District Election Officer, Manzoor Ahmad Qadri  underscored the importance of enrolling all eligible citizens in the electoral roll. 

He emphasized that participating in elections is not only a civic duty but also a celebration of democratic values.

DEO urged all eligible citizens to exercise their right to vote, as it is fundamental to shaping our future and upholding democratic principles.

He said, District Administration is committed to ensure that every eligible citizen is informed about their voting rights and the importance of their participation in the electoral process.

Police Observer conducts extensive visits to Pulwama, Pampore Constituencies

PULWAMA:  Police Observer, Akhilesh Kumar   for the ongoing Assembly elections conducted a comprehensive visit to Pulwama and Pampore constituencies today. 

He visited Government Higher Secondary School, Kakapora and Government Higher Secondary School, Nehama where he interacted with local residents to assure them of free, fair and transparent elections. 

During his interactions,  Kumar gathered valuable feedback from the public regarding election preparations and reassured them that all necessary precautions, as per the guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI), would be strictly implemented to ensure a smooth electoral process.

In addition, Kumar inspected various Static Surveillance Team (SST) nakas across the district of Pulwama, with specific checks at the 24/7 nakas located at Kandizal and Koil crossings.

 He also visited Sathergund, a village in Kakapora, where he engaged with local voters to understand the issues popped up during previous elections and assured to  address their concerns for the upcoming polls.

Police Observer reaffirmed the commitment of the administration to ensure the security and integrity of the electoral process.

General Observer Conducts extensive tour of  41-Dooru  Assembly Constituency  of Anantnag

ANANTNAG: Election Observer, Sudhanshu Mohan Samal visited  Strong Room established at Government Degree College Dooru, falling under Assembly Constituency 41-Dooru to assess the  preparations for securing the EVMs of  General Assembly elections.

During the visit, the Observer inspected the  infrastructure, and operational readiness at the Strong Room. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards of security and transparency throughout the election process, ensuring the safe storage and handling of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

The Observer expressed satisfaction with the preparations and encouraged the election staff to maintain the protocols strictly. He highlighted the Election Commission’s commitment for conducting free, fair, and transparent elections.

The Observer  briefed the concerned officers to adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India.

Pertinently, the polling for the Assembly Constituency is slated for 18th September, 2024 in the first phase of polling in Jammu & Kashmir.

SVEEP Program hosted at Gajoth -Bhalla to spread Voter Awareness

DODA: A special Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program was conducted today in the remote Panchayat of Gajoth in Bhalla Tehsil to raise awareness among voters about the importance of voting.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from local flower growers, farmers, and the ICDS team of Doda, reflecting a broad spectrum of community involvement.

The program was graced by the presence of District Election Officer   Harvinder Singh, who delivered a compelling message about the significance of every single vote in a democracy. He urged all eligible voters to exercise their democratic right, calling it a vital step towards shaping the future of the region.

The event also featured the contribution from the Program Officer ICDS, Doda, Child Development Project Officer (CDPO), Bhaderwah, Nodal Officer Media Cell/MCMC Nasir Ahmed along with SVEEP Nodal Officer.

Together, they appealed to the residents of the Gajoth Panchayat to turn out in large numbers on Election Day and contribute to a robust democratic process.

Despite Gajoth’s remote location, the event witnessed a positive reception from the locals, who expressed appreciation for the information provided through the SVEEP program. Many community members remarked on how the initiative gave them valuable knowledge about the electoral process and the power of their vote.

The SVEEP program continues to play an instrumental role in fostering voter education and encouraging active participation in the democratic process across the Doda District.

Touqeer Bagwan, a progressive and dynamic young farmer played a pivotal role in making the event a success.

General Observer inspects Strong Room, Polling station and RO Office in Reasi

REASI: In preparation for the upcoming General Assembly Election 2024, General Observer for AC-57 Reasi and AC-58 Shri Mata Vaishno Devi (SMVD), Avi Prasad today carried out an extensive inspection of the Returning Officer (RO) 57 Office and the Strong Room for AC-57 (Reasi) today. The General Observer was accompanied by District Election Officer (DEO) Vishesh Mahajan.

The inspection was conducted to assess the district’s preparedness for the secure handling, storage and management of election materials. Ensuring that all security measures are in place, the inspection included a comprehensive review of the Strong Room, RO office, polling stations and other election-related facilities.

Later, the observer took stock of key facilities including the Media Cell, Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) and Election Control Room ensuring that all systems are in place for effective communication and monitoring during the elections. The Observer stressed the importance of these systems for effective communication and monitoring throughout the election period, ensuring transparency and smooth conduct of the electoral process.

The General Observer emphasised the importance of a transparent and fair election process. Other officers present during the inspection were Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Sukhdev Singh Samayal, Nodal officer MCC (ADC) Kulbhushan Khajuria, Returning Officer AC-57 Anshumali Sharma, ARO AC-57 Suresh Singh and other key election officials.

Election Expenditure Observer reviews working of   monitoring cell, MCC team at Reasi

REASI: Expenditure Observer, Dr. Nidhi Khera held a meeting with members of Expenditure Monitoring cell and MCC team in Reasi. She held a brief discussion about actions taken by district administration for monitoring of election related expenditures.

The Observer inspected the record registers maintained by the expenditure monitoring committee and emphasized on regularly updating of the same. She reviewed expense records, verified expenditure authenticity and stressed on adherence to election laws by the election office. She also urges officers to carry out their responsibilities diligently till the conclusion of the election process. She assured the team of her accessibility throughout the election period, encouraging them to reach out with any queries or concerns.

Additionally, she also held a virtual meeting with SST (static surveillance team) and VVT (Video viewing team) along with Nodal officer MCC Kulbushan Khajuria. The Expenditure Observer underscored the importance of working with professionalism, reminding the team members the significance of their services towards the nation and its welfare. She reviewed expense records, verified expenditure authenticity and stressed on adherence to election laws by the election office.

The Expenditure Observer was accompanied by Nodal officer MCMC Kulbushan Khajuria, Nodal officer Expenditure monitoring cell Qamar Rehman, Nodal officer MCMC Ujwal Sambyal and other concerned officials.

Teachers’ day celebrated with Mega SVEEP Event at GGHSS Reasi

 7000 students, teaching, non-teaching staff from across local schools connect digitally

REASI: A Mega SVEEP programme, coinciding with Teachers’ Day, was organised at Government Girls Hr. Secondary School, Reasi.

Around 7000 students, teaching and Non teaching staff of the schools from across the district connected digitally.

The event held under the overall supervision of District Election Officer, Vishesh Mahajan witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers and other staff. The students of Govt. Girls and Boys Hr. Secondary School presented a vibrant cultural program featuring Songs, Skits, Poetry Recitation and Symposium to disseminate information regarding the importance of casting their vote to strengthen democracy.

The SVEEP team, led by District Nodal Officer Sachin Sharma, highlighted the pivotal role of students as ambassadors for spreading electoral awareness. He encouraged all the officials, students and faculty members to motivate the general masses to exercise their vote and enthusiastically participate in the democratic process on 25 September 2024. He laid emphasis on various measures taken by District Administration to make voting accessible such as Pink Polling Stations for women, home voting for senior citizens aged 85 and above, ensuring inclusivity in the voting process.

Chief Education Officer, Deepak Kumar Gupta, Vice Principal, GHSS Dr. Zakir Hussain, Teachers, students, and officials of the different departments were present.

DEO reviews operational efficiency of Surveillance Teams

KATHUA: District Election Officer Dr. Rakesh Minhas today chaired a crucial meeting in the Conference Hall of the DC Office Complex to strengthen the operational efficiency of the Static Surveillance Teams (SST), Flying Surveillance Teams (FST), and Video Surveillance Teams (VST) in preparation for the upcoming Assembly elections.

The primary focus of the meeting was to reaffirm adherence to the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) guidelines for monitoring election activities and enforcing the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Dr. Minhas emphasized the pivotal role of the SST in ensuring the elections are conducted in a transparent and impartial manner.

Dr. Minhas outlined that the SST serves as the crucial frontline in maintaining electoral integrity, tasked with detecting and preventing any financial or material irregularities that could undermine the election process. He stressed the need for comprehensive vehicle inspections and meticulous scrutiny to deter any potential breaches.

It was given out that no person is allowed to carry cash beyond the ceiling limit of Rs 50000/- except where there is proper receipt/evidence of the Cash with the holder.

The DEO instructed the teams to seize any suspicious cash, illicit alcohol or excise-controlled substances and unaccounted materials found during inspections to prevent their undue influence on the election. He underscored the necessity for SST members to be well-versed in the monitoring and enforcement protocols to ensure strict compliance with the MCC.

Dr. Minhas also highlighted the broader responsibilities of the SST, which extend beyond vehicle inspections to include a wide range of surveillance activities aimed at identifying and addressing potential violations of the MCC.

The DEO reiterated the importance of professionalism, vigilance, and thoroughness among the team members. He assured that the district administration is committed to providing full support and resources throughout the election period and addressing any issues that may arise.

The DEO focused on collaboration and adherence to ECI guidelines reflecting the administration’s commitment to conducting elections in Kathua that are free, fair and uphold democratic values. ‎

Election Observers inspect Strong Room, Training Session in Ramban; Interact with trainee Polling Staff

RAMBAN: General Observer Himanshu Kumar Rai, along with Police Observer Kunal Aggarwal, Expenditure Observer Sulekh Chand Jain, and District Election Officer (DEO), Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary on Thursday conducted thorough inspection of the Strong Room at AC-54 Ramban today. The Observers reviewed the election-related preparations in line with the established election schedule.

During the inspection, the observers issued necessary instructions to the officers, stressing the importance of ensuring foolproof security and comprehensive arrangements to guarantee free, fair, and transparent elections in both Assembly Constituencies of the district.

After the Strong Room inspection, the observers visited the venue for the training organized by polling staff.  

The observers interacted with the staff undergoing training, which focused on the efficient handling of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems. They underscored the importance of engaging fully with the training to improve their proficiency in operating EVMs and VVPATs, as well as acquiring the essential knowledge required for the efficient conduct of the elections.

Additionally, the observers encouraged participants to familiarize themselves with the rules and guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI) concerning election procedure.

During the interactive session, resource persons addressed various questions and concerns raised by participants regarding their polling duties, ensuring that all doubts were clarified.

Integrated Election Control Room, MCMC, Media Centre established in Kathua

Facility fully equipped to provide relevant info to Voters, track down Election violations 24x7: DEO  

KATHUA: In preparation to the upcoming General Elections to the Legislative Assembly 2024, the District Election Cell Kathua has established an Integrated Election Control Room, Media Certification & Monitoring Committee (MCMC), and a fully functional Media Centre here in the DC/DEO Office.

The facilities, in line with the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines, aim to ensure a smooth, transparent, and fair electoral process.

The MCMC has been set up to monitor paid news and pre-certify political advertisements across various media platforms, including TV, radio, cinema halls, the internet, social media, and e-papers. This body will ensure that all political advertisements comply with ECI standards before being broadcast or published. An official email address, mcmc.kathua@gmail.com, has been designated for communication and certification purposes.

In addition to monitoring advertisements, the Media Centre is tasked with providing real-time election-related information to the public, media, political parties, and other stakeholders. This ensures that all developments during the election process are effectively communicated and accessible.

The 24x7-Integrated Election Control Room has been equipped to respond to inquiries and provide support to the stakeholders during the election period. It is designed to manage different aspects of the election process and respond to queries. The public can reach the control room through the numbers 1950, +91 1922232300, and +91 1922313728.

Speaking on the arrangements, The District Election Officer (DEO)  Dr. Rakesh Minhas, stated that these initiatives, in accordance with ECI guidelines, are crucial in maintaining a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. He emphasized the importance of real-time information dissemination and monitoring media content to ensure a level playing field for all political stakeholders.

Dr. Minhas also conducted a detailed visit to the facilities to ensure their readiness and efficiency. He asked all nodal officers and staff involved in election duties to work with dedication and in coordination to uphold the integrity of the elections.

District Election Cell conducts sticker drive under SVEEP in Udhampur

UDHAMPUR: To enhance voter awareness and encourage maximum participation in the upcoming Assembly Elections, the District Administration Udhampur organized a sticker drive under the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation campaign here at Matador stand.

District Election Officer Saloni Rai, Nodal Officer SVEEP Dr. Preeti Sharma and other officers, besides local public affixed voter awareness stickers on vehicles.

The officers used this opportunity to motivate the public to exercise their democratic right by voting in the forthcoming Assembly Elections. The DEO appealed to the public to cast their vote, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement.

General Observer 48-Inderwal Assembly Constituency available for public hearing

Inspects Polling Stations, Control Room, MCMC, SMMC Cells

KISHTWAR: General Observer for the 48-Inderwal Assembly Constituency Dr. A Arun Thamburaj, will be available for listening to public issues at Chenab Bhavan, NHPC Colony, from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM daily.

He will be responsible for overseeing the election process and ensuring transparency and adherence to election guidelines within the 48-Inderwal Constituency.

The general public, voters, and political parties are encouraged to meet Dr. Thamburaj at his designated office venue at Chenab Bhavan, NHPC Colony, from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM daily.

Individuals can present their concerns and register grievances related to the Assembly Election in the 48-Inderwal Assembly Constituency during this time.

Dr. Thamburaj can also be reached on his contact number, 9149711791, for any election-related queries.

Meanwhile, the General Observer conducted a thorough inspection of various polling stations across the 48-Inderwal Assembly Constituency here today. The visit aimed to assess the Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) and review other logistical arrangements to ensure a smooth, free, fair, and secure voting process.

Following the inspection, Dr. A Arun Thamburaj visited the Election Control Room, Social Media Monitoring Cell, and Media Certification & Monitoring Cell. During the visit, He interacted with the concerned officers and closely reviewed the functioning of these critical election-related units. He emphasized the importance of maintaining strict adherence to electoral guidelines and issued specific directions to the staff to ensure seamless coordination during the election process.

Election Cell intensifies SVEEP awareness across Ramban District

RAMBAN: To make the SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) awareness drive more vibrant and impactful, the District Election Cell Ramban, under the leadership of District Election Officer (DEO) Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, organized a series of events across the district to enhance voter turnout in the upcoming Assembly Elections 2024, scheduled on September 18, 2024  in the district.

The District SVEEP Team, along with Nodal Officer SVEEP 54-Ramban and Nodal Officer SVEEP 55-Banihal, conducted an extensive awareness programs at the Government Higher Secondary School Sangaldan,   marketplace and surrounding areas of Sangaldan, including Harog and Chachawah. The events saw active participation from a large number of voters, teachers, Booth Level Officers (BLOs), and students demonstrating a strong community commitment to the democratic process.

These awareness activities were organized under the overall supervision of District Nodal Officer SVEEP, Bikram Singh, who ensured that the programs effectively reached the target audience, encouraging informed and active participation in the electoral process.

The District Administration's efforts reflect its dedication to ensuring a significant voter turnout in the forthcoming elections, thereby strengthening the democratic framework in the region.

Expenditure Observer reviews election preparedness in Udhampur

UDHAMPUR: Election Expenditure Observer V. Vivekananda Reddy today chaired a review meeting with officers from various departments to assess the preparedness for the upcoming General Assembly Election 2024 in Udhampur District.

The meeting was attended by District Election Officer Saloni Rai; Additional Deputy Commissioner Prem Singh; Probationer Swati Sheemar and other key officers.

At the outset, the DEO provided a detailed briefing to the Expenditure Observer regarding the preparations and the teams assembled to monitor the compliance of the Model Code of Conduct. She also outlined the strategies being implemented to ensure accurate tracking of election-related expenditures.

The Expenditure Observer conducted a thorough review of the preparations on a constituency-wise basis, focusing on the status of teams deployed for expenditure monitoring. He emphasized the importance of maintaining meticulous records and strictly adhering to the guidelines set by the Election Commission of India for expenditure booking.

Furthermore, he stressed the need for coordination among the various teams to ensure effective oversight of election expenses.

The Expenditure Observer urged the Nodal Officers to promptly document any MCC violations and to ensure swift communication with the Expenditure Observer regarding such incidents. He also reiterated the importance of sincerity and diligence in the execution of their duties.

Expressing satisfaction with the overall election preparedness, the Expenditure Observer commended DEO Udhampur and her team for their efforts in ensuring detailed and systematic arrangements. He appreciated the comprehensive briefing provided to all the teams about their roles and responsibilities, ensuring a transparent and well-managed electoral process.

DEO inspects Polling Stations in Bhalla Tehsil

DODA: District Election Officer (DEO), Doda, Harvinder Singh today conducted a thorough inspection of polling stations at Gajoth and the adjoining areas of Bhalla Tehsil today.

The visit was aimed at reviewing the preparedness for the upcoming Assembly Election-2024.

During the inspection, the DEO emphasized the importance of providing voters with accessible and safe polling facilities. He directed the Chief Education Officer (CEO) Doda to expedite the necessary repairs and maintenance of polling stations located in various schools across the district. The repairs are to be completed at the earliest to ensure that the polling infrastructure is in optimal condition ahead of the elections -2024.

The DEO urged all stakeholders to work in coordination to address any issues related to polling stations and ensure the successful conduct of elections.

DEO Shopian reviews election preparedness 

SHOPIAN: District Election Officer (DEO) Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar today chaired a meeting of all Nodal Officers to review the preparation for upcoming General Assembly elections 2024 at Mini-Secretariat Shopian to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the election process in the district.

Nodal Officers apprised the DEO about their election assignments and their preparations for efficient execution of Election Management Plan.

During the comprehensive review, all the arrangements of District Election Management Plan including logistics, material management, enforcement of MCC, SVEEP activities, transport plan, expenditure monitoring, Home voting, Receipt& dispatch of material, refreshment for polling staff etc were reviewed and directions given to increase the preparedness level.

DEO also directed for increasing the SVEEP activities across the villages targeting voters by involving local communities. He announced the rewards for best performing BLOs, ASHAs/ AWWs to increase turnouts.

DEO emphasized on the role of Nodal Officers to ensure smooth, free, fair and transparent conduct of General Assembly elections in the district Shopian. The meeting was attended by Nodal officers and other concerned.

DEO Shopian leads the SVEEP Programme at Heerpora

Appeals people to vote and use their power in the upcoming festival of Assembly election

SHOPIAN: In an endeavor to promote and encourage greater electoral participation, the District Election Officer (DEO), Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar today led a SVEEP awareness programme here at Borihallan, Heerpora organised by Nodal Officer, SVEEP.

The rally started from Borihallan village and culminated at Heerpora which saw enthusiastic participation from the public including tribal community members.

The objective of the SVEEP awareness programme was to inspire and motivate the voters of the area to exercise their franchise and use their power to choose their best representative to the Legislative Assembly.

DEO on the occasion called upon the public to participate in the upcoming Assembly Elections, scheduled for September 18 by exercising their franchise and encouraged youth to participate in SVEEP Reel Competition for greater awareness of voter participation

SVEEP Program Conducted at Trichal and UPS Chewakalan in AC-34 Pulwama

PULWAMA:  In a bid to enhance voter awareness and promote active participation in the democratic process, a comprehensive SVEEP (Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation) program was conducted today at Trichal and UPS Chewakalan in Assembly Constituency 34-Pulwama.

The initiative engaging the local community underscores the importance of every vote in shaping the future of the region.

The event included interactive sessions aimed at educating citizens on the significance of their participation in the upcoming elections, emphasizing the power of the vote in a democracy.

 Special efforts were made to reach out to first-time voters, ensuring they are well-informed about the electoral process and their rights as voters.

The District Administration, in collaboration with local officials, is committed to ensuring that every eligible voter exercises their franchise, reinforcing the message that every voice counts.

This voter awareness program is part of the larger SVEEP initiative undertaken across the district, aligning with efforts to ensure maximum voter turnout in the forthcoming 2024 Assembly Elections.

DEO Bandipora visits Counting Centre, Strong Room for 15-Bandipora Assembly Constituency

BANDIPORA: The District Election Officer (DEO) Manzoor Ahmad Qadri today visited the strong room and counting centre established for the 15-Bandipora Assembly Constituency at Degree College Bandipora to ensure all arrangements are in place for the forthcoming Assembly elections.

During the  visit, DEO M. A. Qadri conducted a detailed assessment of the facilities at the strong room and reviewed the management procedures for the counting process.

 The DEO emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards of security and efficiency in the handling of electoral materials, ensuring a transparent and smooth electoral process besides providing a secure and well-organized environment for the counting of votes to uphold the democratic process.

M. A. Qadri also highlighted the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders  in preparing for the elections and emphasized  ensuring that every detail is meticulously managed.

Earlier, the Executive Engineer R&B briefed the DEO on the arrangements and preparations made to support the electoral process including  infrastructure readiness and logistical support to ensure a smooth and orderly counting process.

Awareness programme under SVEEP held at GDC Vilgam

KUPWARA: Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Handwara, Aziz Ahmad Rather who is also Returning Officer (RO) AC- 05-Handwara presided over a SVEEP programme at Government Degree College (GDC), Villgam to promote Voter Awareness. 

The programme was organised exclusively for students, employees, focusing on the importance of exercising their voting rights  by the College authorities in collaboration with Tehsil office Villgam.

This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to empower voters and encourage their active participation in the democratic process.

Speaking on the occasion, the RO said that the aim of the  SVEEP  programme is to promote voter education and participation in forthcoming elections of the J&K Assembly.

DEO Pulwama Conducts Extensive Visits to Distribution cum Receipt Centres across Four Assembly Constituencies

PULWAMA: District Election Officer (DEO) Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, conducted extensive visits to the Distribution cum Receipt Centres across the four Assembly Constituencies today. 

The centres he visited include Government Degree College Boys, Pulwama for AC-Pulwama, Government Degree College for Women, Pulwama for AC-Rajpora, EDI Pampore for AC-Pampore and ITI Tral for AC-Tral. 

The visits were in connection with the commencement of the commissioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) on an Assembly Constituency-wise basis.

During his visits, the DEO directed the Returning Officers (ROs) of all four constituencies to ensure that the Presiding Officer Handbooks are distributed during the training sessions for all Presiding Officers. 

The step aims to enhance the knowledge and preparedness of the polling staff in line with the guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Dr. Qayoom also interacted with candidates and their representatives and political parties and their representatives and engineers deputed by the ECI to oversee the commissioning of the EVMs and VVPATs. 

He emphasized the need for strict adherence to the guidelines of the Election Commission in both letter and spirit and reiterated the importance of following the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The DEO further inspected the counting hall at Government Degree College for Women, Pulwama ensuring that all necessary preparations are in place for the upcoming elections.

Mega SVEEP Event Conducted in AC-32 Pampore to Promote Voter Awareness

PULWAMA: A series of Mega Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) events were successfully conducted today at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Pampore, High School (HS) Singoo Narbal and Government Primary School (GPS) Nagender in Assembly Constituency 32-Pampore. 

The events were aimed at raising voter awareness and encouraging mass participation in the upcoming Assembly elections.

These initiatives emphasized the importance of active voter engagement and the crucial role each citizen plays in strengthening democracy.

The campaign sought to ensure that every eligible voter is informed, motivated and ready to cast their vote, reinforcing the message that "every vote counts".

Extensive SVEEP activities boost Voter Awareness across Kathua

KATHUA: An engaging Nukkad Natak was organized today at Government HSS Plassi as part of the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program. The event aimed to educate students, staff, and the general public about the significance of exercising their right to vote in the upcoming Assembly Elections scheduled for October 1, 2024.

Alongside the Nukkad Natak, a painting competition was held for students from classes 11th and 12th. A speech by a 12th-grade student further emphasized the importance of voting in a democracy. The diverse activities encouraged young voters, especially first-time voters, to turn out in record numbers on Election Day.

Nodal Officer SVEEP 65-Basohli, Dr. Roshan Lal, engaged with students, faculty, and other attendees, including BLO supervisors, Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, prominent citizens, and voters from nearby polling booths. He spoke about the crucial role students can play in promoting informed and ethical voting, urging the audience to use social media platforms to spread SVEEP initiatives, ensuring that no eligible voter is left behind.

The event concluded with a joint pledge ceremony, where all attendees committed to responsible participation in the upcoming elections.

The SVEEP team in AC 68-Hiranagar under the supervision of Nodal Officer SVEEP Hiranagar AC Priya Lakshmi expanded its awareness campaign to the border villages of Bobia, Patti, and Karol Bidho. The activities included discussion sessions, a SVEEP walk, and a unique declaration by women voters, who pledged to vote on October 1st by applying henna on their hands.

The event saw active participation from first-time voters, women, and senior citizens, all committing to ethical and inclusive voting. Senior citizens also appealed to all eligible voters in the area to exercise their right to vote on Election Day.

In AC 67-Kathua (SC), the ongoing SVEEP campaign continued with a Nukkad Natak by students from Government Higher Secondary School, Nagri Parole. The street play, performed in the bustling market area, captured the attention of a large crowd, highlighting the importance of electoral participation. The event ended with a collective Voters' Pledge, taken by both students and the public.

Nodal Officer SVEEP 67- Kathua AC, Jatinder Sethi praised the students for their dedication and commended the school staff for their mentorship. Prominent figures, including Sh. Prithvi Raj Sangra, Executive Officer of the Municipality, Nagri Parole, attended the event, recognizing the students' efforts with refreshments.

Later, an Essay Writing Competition was organized at Government Higher Secondary School (Boys), Kathua, encouraging students to reflect on the significance of voting.

Election Expenditure Observer inspects Integrated Control Room, MCMC, Media Centre at Kathua

KATHUA: Expenditure Observer Atesham Ansari (IRS) today inspected key election facilities in Kathua District, including the Integrated Election Control Room, Media Certification & Monitoring Committee (MCMC) and the Media Centre established in the DEO Office Kathua.

The visit aimed to assess the readiness and effectiveness of the dedicated cells established to ensure transparency and efficiency during the upcoming elections. The Observer reviewed the operational status of the Integrated Control Room, MCMC, and Media Centre, and interacted with the staff to gather first-hand insights on the functionality of these units.

During the inspection, the Observer was briefed about the arrangements and the role assigned to each unit in facilitating a seamless electoral process. The staff provided updates on the preparations made to handle election-related queries and ensure smooth operations throughout the election period.

Emphasizing the need for transparency and efficiency, the Observer highlighted the importance of adhering to election guidelines and maintaining high standards of service. He also stressed the need to ensure that all necessary facilities are available to assist voters, candidates, and other stakeholders involved in the electoral process.

SSP Kathua Deepika, Nodal Officer for the Control Room, Neeraj Bhargav (DIO), and AERO Aana Jamwal (Tehsildar) were also present. ‎

General Observer reviews election facilities in Bhaderwah constituency  

BHADERWAH:  General Observer for Assembly Constituency (AC) 51- Bhaderwah   Malikarjuna -A today chaired a crucial meeting to review election related arrangements here today.

The meeting brought together heads of all election officials, who provided updates on their role and responsibilities during the electoral process.

The General Observer AC 51- Bhaderwah emphasized the need for accurate and accessible polling station information, as well as the timely execution of election-related duties by all departments involved. Special attention was given to ensuring adequate security measures, voter facilitation, and the provision of basic amenities at polling stations.

District Election Officer Doda, Harvinder Singh, also participated in the meeting, accompanying General Observer Malikarjuna A.