Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Sept 13: Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Pandurang Kondbarao Pole today chaired a meeting with nodal officers and other senior officers of the district to review the preparations for the upcoming Urban Local Bodies Elections in the district.
During the meeting, the CEO highlighted significant transformation witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir as regular ULB elections have now become a consistent feature of the region. He underscored the pivotal role these elections have played in devolving powers to the grassroots level, bringing governance closer to the people.
“For the first time in recent history, power rests with Urban Local Bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions,” affirmed the CEO, emphasising on the growing awareness among the citizens about the importance of each vote.
During the discussions, the Chief Electoral Officer engaged with Nodal Officers on several key aspects. He inquired about the status of electoral rolls and their prompt delivery to political parties, underscoring the importance of transparency in the electoral process. He urged all nodal officers to collaborate in assisting the public to elect their representatives effectively.
During the meeting, the CEO also took feedback on the ongoing and upcoming training sessions for polling staff to ensure their preparedness for the elections.
Among others, the meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Sachin Kumar Vaishya; Commissioner JMC, Rahul Yadav; SSP Jammu, Chandan Kohli; ADCs Harvinder Singh and Sandeep Seointra; besides officers from Election Department.
CEO also visited Samba to oversee the preparations for the Municipal Elections.
The CEO, during the meeting, received updates on various critical aspects of the election preparations. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far and stressed on making collective efforts for ensuring the transparent and efficient conduct of the upcoming municipal elections.
During the meeting, it was informed that all polling stations have been physically verified and are confirmed to be fit for polling. It was also made out that Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) have been made available at every polling station, ensuring a smooth voting experience for citizens.
The status of the appointment of Returning Officers (ROs) and Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) was also discussed, and it was confirmed that the necessary appointments have been made. It was also give out in the meeting that training sessions for ROs and AROs have already been conducted, enhancing their readiness to oversee the electoral process effectively.
The meeting also addressed the action plan for the printing of ballot papers, ensuring that this crucial task is well underway. In addition to these updates, procurement of election-related materials and capacity-building sessions for the election staff were also emphasized upon, highlighting the significance of adequately equipping and training all personnel involved in the electoral process.
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