General Observer, Dheeraj Kumar and Police Observer, Daljit Singh for the 4-Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency today conducted comprehensive assessment of election preparedness in the Assembly Constituency (AC)-55 Banihal. Among others, they were accompanied by District Election Officer Ramban, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary; Senior Superintendent of Police Anuj Kumar, ARO, AC-55 Banihal, Rizwan Asgar and several other officers.
The Observers inspected the Election strong room at Government Model Higher Secondary School Boys, Banihal, besides the Control Room and other arrangements. The General Observer also inspected Strong Room lodged with EVMs and VVPATs in presence of representatives of political parties.
During the visit, detailed discussions were held on the enforcement of model code of conduct, expenditure monitoring, Security plan, Transport and Communication plan besides functioning of VST and flying squads. Reviewing the plans worked out by the administration for polling, the Observer said that proper training of polling staff is the key for successful conduct of elections.
He directed the district administration to ensure quality training and better human resource management to ensure smooth conduct of elections scheduled to be held on April 19, 2024 in the district. Emphasising on enhancement of voter turnout, the Observer asked the officers to sensitize voters under Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) activities comprehensively throughout the district. He further directed AROs and Nodal Officers to adhere to the latest guidelines from the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Meanwhile, the District Election Officer briefed the Observers about the election preparedness at the polling station level, including plans for dispatching polling parties, monitoring the model code of conduct, and managing media certification and expenditure vigilance. Senior Superintendent of Police, Ramban, also provided insights into the security plan being formulated for the district to ensure the elections proceed smoothly.