In an effort to encourage women participation in the election process and management, the District Election Authority Poonch has trained 110 female employees for women-managed polling stations, aimed at increasing women's involvement in the electoral process. The initiative will introduce all-women-managed polling stations for the upcoming assembly elections on September 25th.
Under the leadership of District Election Officer (DEO) Vikas Kundal, a comprehensive training session was conducted today for these 110 women, who will run the women-managed polling stations across three constituencies: Haveli, Mendhar, and Surankote. The training focused on equipping the participants with skills in electoral management, including the operation of polling booths, voter assistance, and the handling of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
Addressing the trainees, DEO Vikas Kundal emphasized the importance of their role in the electoral process: "Your participation is crucial. I urge you to perform your duties with dedication and ensure a seamless, voter-friendly experience, particularly for women voters."
The women-managed polling stations will be entirely staffed by women, fulfilling roles such as Micro Observers, Presiding Officers, Polling Officers, and Multi-Tasking Staff. This initiative is designed not only to empower women but also to create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages more women to vote.
Guneet Kour, a trainee from the Haveli constituency, reflecting on her experience said "This initiative is truly empowering. For years, I have been a voter, but now I feel I am actively contributing to our democracy. It’s about more than just managing a polling station; it’s about inspiring other women to come forward and make their voices heard."The initiative covers 42 women for Haveli, 32 for Mendhar, and 36 for Surankote, ensuring that each constituency is well-represented by female staff.