Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Manzoor Qadri on Sunday said that they are working to ensure that no voter is threatened or suppressed, and that the election is conducted in an impartial manner.
Addressing a Press Conference, Qadri said that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure a free and fair polling process in the upcoming elections, aiming to surpass a 75% voter turnout.
Qadri said that a total of 82 sector magistrates have been appointed to ensure the smooth conduct of the election process across the district. Teams have been constituted to immediately address any complaints or irregularities.
“We have taken measures to ensure that all political personalities and campaigners leave the constituency before six o’clock on the 29th of September, to avoid any influence on voters,” he said. “Apart from those involved in poll-related activities, non-voters must also leave the constituency by this deadline,” he added.
Speaking on the importance of a fair election Qadri said that no complaints from political parties or candidates would be overlooked. “We will ensure that there are no allegations of favoritism or suppression, and that every voter is free from pressure,” he said.
Qadri said that the last parliamentary election, turnout of around 62% was recorded in Bandipora. “This time, we are optimistic that the voter turnout will cross 75%,” he said.
He also said that all necessary measures have been put in place to achieve this target.
Regarding the security of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), he said that once the polling is completed, the EVMs will be dispatched to the strong rooms under police escort. “Our main strong room will be at Govt degree college Bandipora, and an intermediary strong room has been established for the Gurez Assembly Segment,” he added.
He further said that the counting process will be carried out on the 8th of October, as per the directions of the Election Commission of India.
“The counting halls are also set up at the degree college, and we are prepared to ensure the integrity of the entire election process,” he added.
