Budgam, October 22:
Today, the General Observer Bhor Singh Yadav, Expenditure Observer Ravinder Kumar, and Police Observer Nachiketa Jha held a joint review meeting with district officers at the Conference Hall, Budgam, to assess the preparedness for the upcoming bye-election to the 27-Budgam Assembly Constituency.
The observers took a detailed appraisal from the Returning Officer and Assistant Returning Officers regarding the arrangements made for the bye-election. The meeting reviewed the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), expenditure monitoring, security and transport plans, communication arrangements, training of polling staff, functioning of Flying Squads and Video Surveillance Teams (VSTs), and other measures to ensure smooth and peaceful conduct of polls.
Emphasising strict adherence to the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines, the observers urged officers to perform their duties with commitment and integrity to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process and ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.
The General Observer called for proactive efforts to boost voter awareness and turnout, while also directing officials to expedite the EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) distribution process across the constituency.
The Expenditure Observer stressed close coordination among monitoring teams to ensure effective oversight of poll expenditure. He directed prompt reporting of any expenditure-related violations and vigilant media monitoring to prevent misuse of campaign funds.
The Police Observer urged all security agencies to maintain high-level coordination and ensure an incident-free and peaceful polling process.
Earlier, District Election Officer (DEO) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat (IAS) briefed the observers on the overall poll preparedness. He informed that 173 polling stations have been set up at 111 designated locations, including several model polling stations to offer a welcoming, voter-friendly environment.
Dr. Bhat added that voter facilities such as clean drinking water, ramps for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and other amenities have been arranged to ensure inclusivity and convenience on polling day.
Later in the day, the observers visited the Media Monitoring and Certification Committee (MCMC) and Control Room at the DC Office Complex and inspected the Strong Room established at Boys Higher Secondary School, Budgam.
The meeting was attended by SSP Budgam Nikhil Borkar (IPS), ADC Budgam, ASP Budgam, Returning Officer (RO) 27-Budgam, Deputy District Election Officer, and all nodal officers concerned.
