In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections in the Union Territory (UT), Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo convened a crucial meeting today with civil and police authorities. The meeting, held in anticipation of the scheduled visit of the Election Commission of India (ECI) on the 12th and 13th of this month, aimed to sensitize officials about the necessary measures for the smooth conduct of the electoral process.
During the meeting, Chief Secretary Dulloo emphasized that the administration’s primary goal is to ensure free and fair elections with significant public participation. He urged both the Divisional and District administrations to undertake all essential steps to facilitate citizens in exercising their democratic rights without encountering any difficulties.
Addressing department-specific concerns, Dulloo engaged with officials to ascertain the progress made in compliance with the directives issued by the ECI. He emphasized the importance of efficiently utilizing the time remaining before the elections to implement these guidelines effectively at the grassroots level.
In attendance was Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) PK Pole, who briefed the gathering on the forthcoming initiatives planned by various departments. Pole highlighted the upcoming electoral literacy campaigns set to take place in educational institutions, alongside the appointment of campus ambassadors in colleges and universities. Furthermore, Pole outlined the ECI’s mandate for ensuring basic facilities at every polling station. These facilities include toilets, ramps, power supply, drinking water, and furniture to enhance the voter experience.
The meeting also addressed the imperative of integrating voter education into the regular curriculum of colleges and universities. Additionally, discussions centered on resolving connectivity challenges at polling stations, ensuring proper approach roads, and arranging transportation and other logistical support for the movement of electoral machinery and personnel during the election period in the UT.
With the visit of the Election Commission on the horizon, the collaborative efforts of the administration underscore a commitment to conducting fair and efficient elections, upholding the democratic principles of the UT.
