Initiate door-to-door campaigns to maximise voter turnout: Chief Electoral Officer to officials

Kishtwar, Mar 23: Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Pandurang K Pole today directed the concerned government officials to initiate door-to-door campaigns to maximise voter turnout under Systematic Voter Education Electoral Participation (SVEEP).

According to an official press release, he was addressing a meeting with various stakeholders, election staff, Nodal Officer of Model Code of Conduct, Election Expenditure Monitoring teams, and Social Media Monitoring Committee here. With an aim to ensure smooth, transparent and inclusive electoral process, CEO conducted a comprehensive visit of Kishtwar district to review preparations for upcoming Lok Sabha Elections, it added.

Pole urged all stakeholders to perform their duties with dedication, integrity and proactive approach, considering the upcoming election as the largest democratic exercise.

He emphasised on the efficient and effective implementation of MCC and Election Expenditures Monitoring, along with strict adherence to Social Media Monitoring. “Special attention must be paid to Persons with Disabilities (PwD) and women voters on polling Day and required facilities for them should be ensured besides ensuring the issuance of postal ballots if required and proper arrangements at polling stations,” Pole said.

The CEO during the visit took stock of arrangements and preparations for the upcoming elections. He issued necessary directions to concerned officials besides emphasising them to adhere to the guidelines issued by Election Commission of India.

The visit encompassed inspection of intermediate strong rooms as well as inspection of facilities available for Lok Sabha election at established polling stations of far off places like Marwah, Warwan and Machail Paddar areas of the district.

CEO, on the occasion, also interacted with voters and briefed them about the importance of maximum participation in the democratic exercise.

He also inspected the strong rooms at District HQ ensuring randomisation of EVMs and other related exercises, ensuring transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

The district administration reaffirmed its commitment to conducting fair and transparent polls, assuring adherence to all guidelines and protocols set forth by the Election Commission of India.