DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
KATHUA, Sept 28
In preparation for the upcoming elections, District Election Officer (DEO) Dr. Rakesh Minhas today chaired a critical meeting with sectoral officers, including police officers, deployed across the Kathua, Jasrota, and Hiranagar assembly constituencies.
Returning Officers of Jasrota, Kathua (SC) and Hiranagar assembly constituencies were also present.
The meeting aimed to streamline election procedures, ensure strict adherence to Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines, and prepare the officers for the roles they will play in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections.
During the session, Dr. Minhas provided a comprehensive briefing on the responsibilities of each officer, outlining the specific duties and protocols that need to be followed. These included the execution of pre-defined checklists, the conduct of election drills, and preparedness to address both mechanical and human resource-related issues during the election process. He emphasized the importance of meticulous planning and execution to minimize any disruptions or challenges during the voting period.
“The success of any election hinges on the dedication and preparedness of our officers on the ground. It is vital that we follow the laid down ECI guidelines with precision and uphold the principles of fairness, impartiality, and neutrality at all times,” Dr. Minhas said, stressing that officers must conduct their roles with the highest level of integrity and transparency.
The DEO further emphasized that sectoral officers should maintain open and continuous communication with Returning Officers (ROs), ensuring any issues are flagged immediately for swift resolution. Officers were instructed to regularly update ROs on ground realities and logistical concerns and to actively seek their intervention whenever necessary to ensure the election process remains on track.
Dr. Minhas underlined the critical nature of the officers’ roles in ensuring the sanctity of the electoral process. He reiterated that fairness and neutrality are paramount and must be upheld throughout the election period. Officers were reminded to remain vigilant and unbiased in all actions, ensuring that the voting process is conducted smoothly and in accordance with the electoral code of conduct.
To ensure complete clarity and readiness, the DEO also conducted a query redressal session during the meeting, providing officers the opportunity to raise any questions or concerns they might have regarding their roles and responsibilities. This interactive session aimed to address any ambiguities or uncertainties, equipping the officers with the knowledge and confidence needed to carry out their duties effectively on Election Day.
The officers raised queries related to logistical issues, communication protocols and Election Day challenges, which were addressed in detail by Dr. Minhas. He reassured the team that any remaining uncertainties should be immediately escalated to the DEO office for swift clarification or action.
Dr. Minhas also stressed the importance of interdepartmental coordination, urging police officers and administrative staff to work in synergy to ensure all election-related activities are carried out without any disruption. He highlighted the importance of maintaining law and order, ensuring smooth communication between polling stations, and providing timely responses to any emergent issues during the election process.
The meeting concluded with a call for continued vigilance and proactive measures to ensure that the election process in Kathua, Jasrota, and Hiranagar constituencies is executed seamlessly, without any disruption, and in full compliance with the ECI’s directives.
