Confident of even better turnout than LS polls: CEO

Jammu, Sep 13: J&K Chief Electoral Officer Pandurang K Pole Friday exuded confidence that voter turnout during ensuing assembly elections would be even better than what was witnessed during Lok Sabha polls in J&K, which saw overwhelming public participation.

He also asserted that the security was not that difficult a challenge and the election authorities and administration were fully capable of ensuring peaceful, free and fair polls.

Pole was responding to media queries after assessing the preparations in the Udhampur district for the upcoming Assembly Elections 2024.

“During Lok Sabha polls, we got great support from the people. We saw voters exuberantly participating in the electoral process. Public participation was overwhelming despite rain and inclement weather conditions. We expect even better turnout this time,” he said.

“As regards security, it is not that difficult a challenge. Definitely, two or three incidents have taken place in the last couple of months. But the state has witnessed a situation, worse than the present (security) scenario. I was posted here ten years ago and twenty years ago, I was undergoing training here. So I very well know that the people will not be deterred by it (terror threats),” the CEO said, asserting that they were capable of ensuring peaceful, free and fair polls.

“Today it was a day dedicated to scrutiny of candidates. Nominations are being scrutinised. Following the last date for withdrawal of candidature, the formal campaign process will begin. As far as preparedness is concerned, it has been going on for the last three to four months. The process of EVM commissioning too has been completed. Observers too have reached their respective destinations. Anyone having grievances (related to the election process) can approach them. So preparations are at an advanced stage,” Pole said.