Srinagar, Mar 18: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Pandurang K Pole (P K Pole), emphasised on Monday the commitment to ensuring free and fair elections, urging people to participate in large numbers.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, CEO P.K.Pole, stated that preparations for the elections are nearing completion. The process, initiated six months ago with a summary revision, has led to the establishment of approximately 325 additional polling stations. The final voter list, published in January, is continuously updated in anticipation of polling day.
“We are committed to conducting free, fair, transparent, peaceful, and incident-free elections. The right to vote is a fundamental constitutional right for citizens, and everyone should exercise this right,” Pole emphasized.
He urged people to utilize their right to vote and actively participate in the democratic process.
Training sessions, from District Commissioners (DCs) to administrative staff, have been concluded, Pole mentioned. Master-level trainers have been deployed to train the staff, with training for polling personnel set to begin within the next two to three days.
“Identification of manpower is nearly complete, and manuals for officers have been distributed,” Pole added, noting substantial progress in the preparations.
In remote and snow-covered areas, helicopters are being utilized to transport staff and election materials, Pole informed. Civil helicopters are being hired to address emergency situations.
“Many polling stations are situated in government schools and colleges. The administration will ensure all necessary arrangements at polling booths, including water, electricity, separate washrooms, and other facilities,” Pole assured.
