UDHAMPUR: District Election Officer Udhampur, Saloni Rai, today convened a meeting to review the arrangements for the upcoming vote counting scheduled on October 8 for the Assembly Elections 2024.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Prem Singh, Probationer Swati Sheemar, Additional Superintendent of Police Sandeep Bhat, all Returning Officers and senior officers of the district administration were present in the meeting.
A detailed discussion was held on various aspects of the counting process. These included ensuring uninterrupted power supply, seating arrangements for counting agents, maintaining the secrecy of the ballots, provision of adequate drinking water and upholding discipline and decorum at the counting center, law and order, security arrangements, counting of postal ballots, videography/CCTV during the counting process and arrangements for pre-counting of the ETPBS and VVPAT slip counting were also thoroughly reviewed.
DEO emphasized the need for strict compliance with the guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India to ensure a transparent and smooth counting process. She highlighted the importance of establishing separate entry points for candidates and counting staff to prevent confusion or overcrowding at the center.
A dedicated room equipped with communication facilities will be arranged for General Observers, aiding them in carrying out their responsibilities efficiently. Additionally, an LCD screen will be installed to provide real-time election results during the counting process.
The DEO further directed that law and order be strictly monitored throughout the counting period to avert any potential incidents. To enhance security and regulate the movement of people, a pedestrian zone will be established within 100 meters of the counting center. The DEO also mandated a three-tier security arrangement around the counting centers, which will include barricading of access routes and strict entry protocols to ensure the safety and integrity of the proceedings.