DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
RAJOURI, Sept 5
In the run-up to the Assembly Elections 2024, General Observer for Assembly Constituency 87-Thanamandi, Tikam Chand Bohra, conducted an extensive visit to key polling stations and election-related setups within the constituency. The visit aimed at reviewing the preparedness for the upcoming elections and ensuring that all arrangements comply with the guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
The General Observer began his inspection at the Govt. Girls Higher Secondary School in Thanamandi, which has been designated as a polling station for the upcoming elections. He reviewed the infrastructure and facilities available for voters, ensuring that the arrangements are in line with the ECI guidelines, particularly regarding accessibility for differently-abled voters. He also emphasized the need for smooth entry and exit points for voters, adequate signage, and the deployment of security personnel to maintain order during the polling process.
Later, he visited the Govt. Boys Higher Secondary School, another key polling station in the Thanamandi Assembly Constituency. He interacted with the polling staff and inspected the setup to ensure that all essential arrangements, including proper seating, availability of voting compartments and sufficient lighting were in place. He also reviewed the security measures to ensure that the environment remains peaceful and conducive to free and fair elections.
The General Observer’s visit also included an inspection of the Static Surveillance Team (SST) Naka at Begonara, Thanamandi. This team plays a critical role in monitoring the movement of vehicles and materials to prevent any unauthorized or suspicious activity during the election period. Mr. Bohra checked the logbook and interacted with the officers on duty, instructing them to stay vigilant and ensure strict compliance with the ECI’s protocols for surveillance and monitoring.
He emphasized that the surveillance teams must act impartially and with full transparency, ensuring that no violations of the Model Code of Conduct occur. The SST at Begonara was directed to intensify its monitoring efforts in the days leading up to the elections.
In addition to inspecting polling stations, Mr. Bohra also visited the office of the Returning Officer (RO) for Assembly Constituency 87-Thanamandi. His visit aimed to observe the nomination process firsthand and ensure that all procedures were being carried out in accordance with the ECI’s directions. He reviewed the arrangements made for handling nominations and interacted with the election staff to ensure that they were fully aware of the protocols and timelines for the submission of nominations.
Throughout his visit, the General Observer stressed the importance of strict adherence to the guidelines of the Election Commission of India. He instructed the polling officials and election staff to ensure that all aspects of the election process, from polling station setup to nomination filing, are carried out with the utmost transparency and efficiency. Bohra emphasized that all officials must remain impartial and vigilant to ensure that no violations occur during the election process.
