In a remarkable move, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has established a unique polling station exclusively for a single family in the remote village of Warshi, nestled within the Nubra Sub-Division of Leh District, Union Territory of Ladakh. Chief Electoral Officer UT Ladakh, Yetindra M. Maralkar, unveiled this distinctive initiative, highlighting its significance as the northernmost polling outpost in the area, situated at latitude 35.06413258 and longitude 77.33742535.
“This small tented station, situated at latitude 35.06413258 and longitude 77.33742535, stands as the northernmost polling outpost in the area,” said Maralkar.
The family of five, comprising two males and three females, finds themselves at the heart of this electoral endeavor. The head of the household, a dedicated farmer, is supported by his elder wife in managing their home and family affairs.
Moreover, echoing the ECI’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, another notable polling station, Anley Pho-296, has been established at an altitude of 15,000 feet, marking one of the highest polling stations in Ladakh. This tented polling station adds to the unique electoral landscape of the Ladakh Parliamentary Constituency.
CEO Ladakh recently presided over a review meeting at the CEO Office, Karzoo, addressing critical issues concerning the deployment and arrangements of security personnel in UT Ladakh for the upcoming General Elections to the LokSabha 2024.
The electoral fervor in Ladakh is set to peak on May 20th as the region gears up for its first independent polling for a single seat, having previously been a constituency under the Jammu and Kashmir State. April 26th marks the notification date for the LadakhLokSabha seat, with the deadline for filing nominations set for May 3rd and withdrawal of nominations by May 6th.
Spanning over Leh and Kargil districts, the LadakhLokSabha seat boasts the distinction of being India’s largest constituency in terms of area. Strategically positioned along the borders with Pakistan and China, it holds immense geopolitical significance.
With a total of 182,571 electors, including 91,703 male and 90,867 female voters, the Ladakh administration has erected 577 polling stations to facilitate the electoral process. Special provisions, such as pick and drop services and wheelchair assistance, are being extended to Divyang and elderly electors through the Saksham App.
Furthermore, initiatives like voting from home aim to enhance accessibility for all eligible voters. Notably, the Ladakh constituency witnessed a commendable voter turnout of 76.4% in the 2019 elections, underscoring the region’s commitment to democratic participation.
The Chief Electoral Officer of UT Ladakh is actively spearheading awareness programs, especially targeting first-time voters, to ensure maximum participation and engagement in the electoral process.
