Elections to be conducted peacefully, transparently: CEO Pole

Srinagar, Mar 18: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Pandurang K Pole (P K Pole), assured on Monday that rigorous efforts are underway to ensure free and fair elections. He emphasized the importance of citizens exercising their right to vote and actively participating in the democratic process.
CEO PK Pole informed Rising Kashmir 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, continues to be updated in the lead-up to polling day.
“We are dedicated to conducting elections that are free, fair, transparent, peaceful, and incident-free. The right to vote is a fundamental constitutional right, and every citizen should exercise this right,” Pole affirmed.
In his message, Pole underscored that voting is not just a constitutional right but a responsibility. He encouraged people to choose their representatives from political parties or utilize the NOTA option in respective polling stations.
“People should participate actively in the largest democracy by exercising their right to vote. They should come to the polling station and cast their vote,” Pole emphasized.
He urged the youth, who are the future of India, to exercise their rights and shape their future in the upcoming elections upon turning 18.
Pole highlighted the completion of training sessions for District Commissioners (DCs) and administrative staff, with master-level trainers deployed for further training. Training for polling personnel is scheduled to commence within the next two to three days.
“Identification of manpower is nearly complete, and manuals for officers have been distributed,” Pole noted, expressing satisfaction with the progress of preparations.
To address logistical challenges in remote and snow-covered areas, Pole mentioned the utilization of helicopters for transporting staff and election materials. Civil helicopters are being hired for emergency situations.
“Many polling stations are located 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.
Recently, Chief Electoral Officer P K Pole visited Ganderbal to conduct a comprehensive review of preparations for the forthcoming Lok Sabha Elections. He emphasized the importance of various components of the ongoing election process, including the Transport plan, training for poll staff, Material Management, manpower, SVEEP, MCC, Special Polling Stations, and media monitoring.
Pole directed officers to conduct SVEEP activities in higher secondary schools, colleges, and other areas with historically low voter turnout. He stressed the need for innovative SVEEP activities to empower every eligible voter to exercise their franchise.