Anantnag, Apr 18: The Returning Officer (RO) of the Anantnag-Rajouri Parliamentary constituency, Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid, on Thursday evening said that nine nominations have been submitted thus far, with the deadline approaching on April 19, 2024.
He said that nominations can be filed until 3 pm on April 19, in accordance with the official notification from the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the earlier notification issued at the RO level.
He said that the scrutiny is scheduled for April 20 at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Anantnag, with April 22 being the last day for withdrawal of candidature. Symbol allocation is set for April 23, in line with ECI guidelines. All procedures, including the submission of Form 26 and deposit requirements, will adhere to ECI norms,” he said.
“As we prepare for polling day on May 07, comprehensive arrangements are underway throughout the district. I urge voters to exercise their constitutional right and responsibility by casting their votes. Special arrangements have been made for differently-abled individuals, lactating mothers, and elderly voters to ensure their participation,” he said.
The Returning Officer said that the civil components of the elections, including the setup of control rooms, strong rooms, and housing for security personnel, have been completed. “The transport plan for voting staff has been finalised. All election staff members have undergone training, with their final training session scheduled soon,” he added.
As seen this time, there is heightened enthusiasm among youth and first-time voters, indicating a potential record-breaking voter turnout, Hamid said.
JKNPP (Bhim) announces candidate
In a significant development ahead of the parliamentary elections in the Kashmir region, the J&K National Panthers Party (Bhim) has named Arsheed Ahmed Lone as its candidate for the Anantnag Poonch Parliamentary constituency.
The decision, made during an emergent meeting aimed at strategic realignment and resource optimization, underscores the party’s commitment to effective representation and addressing the diverse needs of constituents in Kashmir, the JKNPP said in a statement issued here.
It said Arsheed Ahmed Lone is recognised for his dedicated service to the community and embodies the values cherished by the J&K National Panthers Party (Bhim).
“Lone’s candidacy reflects the party’s unwavering focus on fostering inclusive governance and advocating for the rights of all citizens,” the party said, adding that the meeting witnessed a reshuffling of responsibilities within the party structure, with Farooq Ahmed Dar, Provincial President Kashmir, assuming responsibilities across all three parliamentary constituencies of Kashmir. This strategic decision aims to capitalise on Dar’s expertise and leadership to enhance the party’s outreach and effectiveness in the region, it added.
Arsheed Ahmed Lone is slated to file his nomination papers tomorrow, marking the commencement of his electoral campaign. The party expresses confidence in his capabilities and believes that his candidacy will resonate with the aspirations of the people in the Anantnag Poonch constituency.
The J&K National Panthers Party (Bhim) has reiterated its commitment to justice, equality, and progress for all. The party has called upon the electorate to support its vision for a prosperous and harmonious future for the Kashmir region.