Srinagar, Apr 18: In anticipation of the first phase of LokSabha Polls, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) PK Pole assures robust security arrangements for the Udhampur-Kathua parliamentary seat. Vehicles transporting Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are under constant GPS surveillance to ensure timely deployment, he stated.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Pole emphasized the comprehensive training provided to various stakeholders, including Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), media organizations, and political parties. He reaffirmed the administration’s preparedness for the electoral process, with additional security forces deployed in border regions.
Security measures are reinforced at all polling stations, including those adjacent to the Line of Control (LoC), Pole assured, expressing confidence in peaceful elections amid the ongoing Ceasefire between India and Pakistan.
Ahead of the polls, the Election Commission of India (ECI) conducted extensive seizures, including cash, liquor, and drugs, amounting to over 4 crores—a record in LokSabha election history. Pole highlighted collaborative efforts to scrutinize political activities and ensure fairness.
In a proactive move, the administration airlifted polling officials and police personnel to snow-bound areas, facilitating the smooth conduct of elections. Pole reiterated the commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections, urging citizens to exercise their constitutional right responsibly.
With 16 Assembly segments spanning Kishtwar, Doda, Udhampur, and Kathua districts, the Udhampur seat witnesses a strategic political landscape. Notably, major regional parties like the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) are absent from the fray, aiming to consolidate votes in favor of the Congress candidate.
Addressing communication challenges, satellite phones, wireless sets, and special runners are deployed in communication shadow areas. Stringent enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) ensures a level playing field for all candidates.
A 24*7 Command and Control Room, alongside mini control rooms at District Electoral Officer (DEO) offices, oversee election-related activities with live feeds and real-time tracking, serving as vital centres for electoral oversight and management.
