CEO predicts record turnout in phase III

Bandipora, Sep 26: Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Pandurang Kondbarao Pole Thursday said that a “record-breaking turnout” was expected in the third phase of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly polls when voters exercise their franchise on October 1.

Speaking on the sideline of a voter awareness programme held under Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) at Bandipora's Chiternaar area, he said that the atmosphere resembled and was even more peaceful than the recently held parliamentary elections.

“For four years a ceasefire has been in place. Lok Sabha elections were conducted peacefully and I don't think external forces will try to interfere in this election in any way. Still, if that happens there is a plan B in place,” Pole said about cross-border interference.

He said assembly elections were being conducted after a decade in J&K and that people had participated in general elections in high numbers in an atmosphere which was free from any fear.

“Similarly, the same or better atmosphere is being witnessed in the ongoing assembly elections,” Pole said.

He said that the overall situation in Kashmir had improved.

The CEO said that besides the role of J&K Police and other forces personnel in establishing peace, the role of people was primary.

He said that there were indications that people would go to poll in high numbers in the third phase too.

From his visit to Gurez areas near the Line of Control (LoC), Pole said, “People there too are excited about elections.”

He reflected on the election campaigning saying, “Vote Traav, Vote Traav slogan was resonating among the masses and we will witness its results on October 1.”