BUDGAM: To review the preparedness for the forthcoming Bye-Elections to 27–Assembly Constituency Budgam scheduled to be held on November 11, a joint review meeting-cum-interactive session was today held at the Conference Hall of the DC Office Complex Budgam.
The meeting was chaired by the District Election Officer (DEO) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, and was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Budgam, Nikhil Borkar; General Observer, Bhor Singh Yadav; Police Observer, Nachiketa Jha, and Expenditure Observer, Ravinder Kumar.
Among others, the meeting was attended by the Returning Officer (RO), DY.DEO, Assistant Returning Officers (AROs), Election Nodal Officers, Zonal and Sector Magistrates, and Zonal and Sector Police Officers. The session was convened to ensure a comprehensive review of arrangements and coordination among all stakeholders involved in the conduct of the bye-elections.
During the meeting, the DEO underscored the need for close synergy between the civil and police administration to ensure the smooth, transparent, and peaceful conduct of elections. He emphasized that the officers on ground play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring a level playing field for all stakeholders.
The DEO stressed strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and directed all officers to perform their duties impartially. He instructed Magistrates to remain vigilant and ensure that all polling-related activities are carried out efficiently and in accordance with the prescribed guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
He highlighted that Magistrates are the first emergency responders in case of any incident on the day of polling whether it involves malfunctioning of EVMs, disruptions in voting, or law and order situations. They were directed to act swiftly, take immediate remedial measures, and communicate such developments to the higher election authorities without delay.
The DEO further instructed all Magistrates to visit their respective polling stations by tomorrow to take firsthand appraisal of Assured Minimum Facilities (AMFs), security arrangements, and any logistical gaps. He emphasized the importance of submitting error-free voter turnout reports every two hours on the polling day, as these updates are critical to the effective management of polling operations.
He also advised the officers to ensure their active participation in the training sessions for Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and related procedures to avoid any procedural lapses. The DEO reiterated that proper coordination between the Magistrates, Nodal Officers, and Police authorities is essential for ensuring a seamless polling process.
Addressing the meeting, the SSP Budgam directed all Zonal and Sector Police Officers to remain alert and maintain strict vigil to ensure a peaceful atmosphere during the election period.
He stressed upon the need for constant coordination with Magistrates and the Election Control Room to address any law and order issues promptly.
The SSP also reviewed area domination exercises, route plans for movement of polling parties, and arrangements for security at strong rooms and polling stations.
The General Observer expressed satisfaction over the district’s preparedness and appreciated the efforts of both the civil and police administrations. He advised all officers to remain proactive and ensure that every instruction of the ECI is implemented in letter and spirit to guarantee a free and fair election.
The Police Observer emphasised the importance of real-time communication between field officers and control rooms for timely response to any untoward incident.
He also reviewed the deployment plans and stressed maintaining transparency and accountability in all security arrangements.
The Expenditure Observer sensitized officers regarding strict monitoring of election expenditure and directed that all reports related to expenditure monitoring be submitted regularly.
He emphasized adherence to ECI norms to ensure that the electoral process remains transparent and free from undue influence.
The meeting concluded with the direction to the officers concerned to conduct the Bye-Elections to 27–Assembly Constituency Budgam in a free, fair, peaceful, and transparent manner, strictly in accordance with the guidelines of the ECI.