To ensure a transparent Ludhiana West by-election, General Observer Rajiv Kumar, IAS, and District Election Officer Himanshu Jain held a meeting with representatives of political parties and independent candidates at the District Administrative Complex on Monday.
The General Observer and DEO provided detailed insights into the electoral process, addressing key topics such as permissions for election-related activities, the Rs. 40 lakh expenditure limit per candidate, strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct, and the role of stakeholders in upholding democratic principles.
General Observer Rajiv Kumar emphasized transparency, inviting candidates and political parties' representatives to report any election-related concerns directly to him. He is available for meetings at the International Guest House, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, or via phone at +91-62831-78975.
He urged all candidates and political parties to strictly follow the Election Commission of India’s guidelines to ensure a free and fair election. The lists of voters aged 85+, persons with disabilities (PWD), polling booths, and randomized EVMs and VVPATs were distributed to candidates and party representatives.
They were also assured that details regarding EVM randomization, commissioning, and movement would be shared to them. They were also instructed to seek approval from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) for advertisements on social or electronic media, bulk SMS, and other platforms.
The General Observer Rajeev Kumar, IAS and DEO Himanshu Jain also called for cooperation from all stakeholders to adhere to the Election Commission of India’s guidelines, ensuring a smooth and impartial by-election process.