Shadow Correspondent
Kishtwar, Sept, 17
General Observer for Assembly Constituency 49-Kishtwar & Assembly Constituency 50-Paddar Nagseni Ramamoorthy Selvam finalised the preparedness for the smooth conduct of Assembly Elections in the twin ACs here at a meeting attended by Zonal & Sectoral Magistrates, besides Police Officers.
The Polling in the district is going to be held tomorrow on September 18 – the first phase of General Election to Legislative Assembly. DEO Rajesh Kumar Shavan and SSP Abdul Qayoom, ROs, besides other concerned officers of Civil and police administration were also present on the occasion.
The Observer emphasized the crucial role of the designated magistrates as the vital link between polling parties and the Returning Officer (RO) and DEO.
The Observer outlined their responsibilities, which include overseeing the movement of polling parties from dispatch centres to polling stations, ensuring the safe arrival of polling teams, reporting on poll day activities, monitoring mock polls and managing the deployment of reserve EVMs, if needed.
Detailed instructions were given regarding their specific role and responsibilities. Key points covered included poll day protocols, such as mock poll as per guidelines, start of poll and the strict observance of the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines.
The DEO reminded officers to monitor the polling process closely, especially the implementation of multiple checks and balances, such as EVM and VVPAT testing and the reporting of any issues immediately.
Sector Magistrates were tasked with ensuring that no polling party is delayed and that all materials are deposited and accounted for correctly. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Abdul Qayoom besides SSP (Security) Gaurav Sikarwar also addressed the gathering, detailing the deployment of police personnel across zones and sectors.
They emphasised the collaboration between civil and police officers to maintain law and order during the elections and underscored the importance of adhering to security protocols to safeguard the electoral process.