Pulwama, May 07,KNT: Chief Electoral Officer UT Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Pandurang .K. Pole, embarked on a pivotal visit to Pulwama to oversee the district’s readiness for the upcoming General Lok Sabha Election 2024. The visit was marked by an array of activities aimed at enhancing voter participation and ensuring the smooth conduct of elections.
CEO conducted a comprehensive review of poll preparedness and security arrangements. Nodal officers were directed to ensure meticulous execution of election plans, emphasizing the importance of adherence to electoral protocols.While reviewing the status of commissioning of EVMs and training of designated staff, the CEO emphasized comprehensive hands-on training aimed at familiarizing the poll staff with the operation and maintenance of EVMs. He also asked the AROs to ensure proper uploading of data on EMS.
District Election Officer (DEO), Dr Basharat Qayoom (IAS), through a PowerPoint Presentation, presented the district profile and overall arrangements in place for free, fair and smooth conduct of elections in the district. He said that all ECI guidelines are being implemented in letter and spirit in the district and efforts are being made to ensure maximum participation of voters in the festival of democracy.
The DEO also briefed about the functioning of MCMC, deployment of SST, FST, VVT and teams, arrangements for senior citizens and PwDs voters in the district.SSPs of Pulwama and Awantipora, briefed about overall security arrangements being put in place for smooth conduct of elections in the district.
The CEO directed for wide publicity of election related activities including SVEEP awareness activities for encouragement of the general public to vote and register highest voter turnout in the district.
The visit was enriched by engaging initiatives focused on promoting voter awareness and engagement. Chief Electoral Officer P.K. Pole actively participated in the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) Program held at the Government Women’s Degree College in Pulwama. The program was not only inaugurated by Chief Electoral Officer P.K. Pole but also featured the inauguration of various sports activities including badminton, carrom, tug of war, kho kho, chess, and a signature campaign.
The event further captivated the audience with cultural performances including Nukkad Natak, Ladai Shah, and the SVEEP Song, all aimed at instilling the value of voting and fostering civic responsibility among citizens.In his address, District Election Officer Dr. Basharat Qayoom extended a warm welcome to the gathering and urged everyone to exercise their voting rights at the nearest polling station, emphasizing the pivotal role of every vote in shaping the democratic process.
Chief Electoral Officer P.K. Pole reiterated the significance of voter participation in strengthening democracy, urging citizens to cast their votes wisely at their nearest polling stations.Furthermore, Chief Electoral Officer P.K. Pole reviewed the arrangements for the Dispatch Cum Receipt Centre across the district to ensure seamless logistics during the election process.
The CEO emphasized the need for widespread publicity of home voting options.Recognizing the importance of facilitating voting for individuals who may face mobility challenges or other barriers to traditional polling station attendance, the CEO underscored the significance of home voting as a means of ensuring every eligible citizen can exercise their democratic right.
Additionally, reviews were made to designated polling stations at Pinglena, Kakapora, and Pampore, with a focus on ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for youth, women, and persons with disabilities (PwD).
The visit underscored the Election Commission of India’s commitment to conducting transparent and fair elections, while also fostering a culture of active citizenship and democratic engagement among the populace.(KNT)
