By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 23 Feb: State Chief Election Officer Dr BVRC Purushottam reviewed the preparations for the Lok Sabha General Elections 2024 for the Tehri Lok Sabha constituency at a meeting held in the Rishiparna Bhawan at the Collectorate, here, today.
During this meeting, the Chief Election Officer flagged off a voter awareness van under the SWEEP initiative, which will motivate voters in booths with low voter turnout percentages in Dehradun district.
He directed the Election Registration Officers (EROs) to monitor the voter list update operations at their respective levels and emphasised the need for unbiased and peaceful monitoring of every election-related activity. The Chief Election Officer also ordered the active involvement of personnel in the control rooms established for election purposes.
Additionally, he directed the EROs of Dehradun, Tehri, and Uttarkashi to conduct door-to-door campaigns through BLOs in areas with low voter turnout percentages and engage brand ambassadors for voter awareness. He emphasised the involvement of local dignitaries, elders, and influencers in educating voters. The Chief Election Officer emphasised following the Election Commission’s guidelines for all personnel involved in the election process and ensuring that no election duty personnel face obstacles.
Instructions were given to ensure basic facilities like drinking water, toilets, ramps, electricity, furniture, wheelchairs in open areas, and palanquins in hilly areas as per the guidelines of the Election Commission. Special arrangements were also advised for voters aged 80 and above and differently-abled voters.
The Chief Election Officer stressed the need for swift action on activities affecting the election, such as keeping the static and flying squads active to prevent distributing of alcohol and cash. Coordination between the police and excise departments was also encouraged to monitor illegal sale/transportation of intoxicating substances.
In conclusion, the Chief Election Officer urged strict compliance with the Election Commission’s calendar and proper implementation of all arrangements and duties during the elections. Various officials, including the Deputy Chief Election Officer and other nodal officers, were present.
