Says “Plan B” ready to tackle external interference
Expresses hope for no ceasefire violations
Bandipora, May 05: Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Electoral Officer, P K Pole, asserted on Sunday that a backup plan (“Plan B”) is ready to safeguard elections in the Kashmir valley against any external interference.
Speaking during a visit to Bandipora, Pole expressed optimism that there would be no cross-border disruptions during the upcoming LokSabhaelections.
“In case of any cross-border interference aimed at disrupting the elections, the election commission has devised a contingency plan to ensure seamless conduct,” stated Pole. He further emphasized the prevailing ceasefire over the past five years, hoping for peaceful elections in border areas.
Pole said they are hopeful that this year, the elections in the border areas will be conducted peacefully, as there has been a prevailing ceasefire for the past five years.
He said that in case of inclement weather and closure of Razdan Top, the Indian Air Force will be requested to assist in transporting the polling parties, EVMs, and other necessary materials for the election in Gurez.
Pole expressed his satisfaction with the voter turnout in Gurez and Bandipora constituencies. He expressed his hope that the people of Bandipora constituency will also participate in large numbers this time to cast their ballots.
Meanwhile, as per the statement issued by District Administration Bandipora, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) J&K UT Pandurang K Pole presided over the Mega SVEEP awareness program amidst the enthralling performances of cultural activities. On the occasion, he addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of voting and voter participation in decision-making and distributed EPIC cards among first-time voters.
The CEO was also joined by General Observer for Baramulla PC Deependra Singh Kushwah in the SVEEP awareness program at Wullar Vantage.
The CEO flagged off a boat rally and participated in a plantation drive aimed at enhancing civic engagement and active participation.
The event also witnessed painting competition among school children, declamation speech by Students and signature campaign during which, Chief Electoral Officer, General Observer for Baramulla PC, DEO, Brand Ambassador for SVEEP activities Padmashree Faisal Ali Dar, and other officers added their signatures to the signature board as gesture of support to democratic values.
The District Election Officer(DEO) ShakeelulRehman, in his welcome address, briefed the CEO regarding activities carried out under the SVEEP initiative in the District.
The CEO in his address said, vote is not only a right but also a responsibility and urged the public to come out on their respective dates of polling and cast vote to be a part of decision making.
He said that to ensure better experiences for voters, all the necessary measures are in place besides all the necessary arrangements have been put in place in border areas to ensure smooth and peaceful voting.
The CEO said that every vote carries immense significance, serving as a cornerstone of our democracy and urged people to exercise their voting right and civic duty by participating in the ongoingLokSabha Elections-2024.
Highlighting the importance of the right to vote, the CEO said that vote is a powerful tool in the hands of people and urged people to use voting right wisely.
Among others the SVEEP awareness programme was attended by DEO ShakeelulRehman, SSP Lakshay Sharma, ADDC M.A.Bhat, ADC Umar Shafi, DyDEO Mohammad Rafeeq, AROs, CEO G M Pujjo, Nodal Officer SVEEP, Brand Ambassador SVEEP activities Padmashree Faisal Ali Dar besides large gathering of men and women, youth and first-time voters.
