Poonch, Aug 30 (IANS) The Election Commission is active in ensuring transparency in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections. In this connection, Election Expenditure Observer Bharat Ramchandra Andhale today conducted a comprehensive review of the surveillance and security arrangements in the Returning Officer offices and strong rooms in Mendhar and Surankot assembly constituencies of Poonch district.
This review is part of the comprehensive strategy of the Election Commission of India to enforce strict compliance with election rules and prevent any illegal activities.
The observer inspected the surveillance infrastructure, focusing on the functionality and coverage of CCTV cameras installed at both the locations where election material, including Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines, are kept safe.
During the inspection, the supervisor also reviewed the preparedness and deployment of security personnel responsible for the security of these facilities.
He laid special emphasis on the importance of maintaining a high level of vigilance, especially during the crucial period of ballot storage and transportation. The observer also reviewed the logbook maintained at the premises.
An important focus of the review was on the strong room sealing process, where EVMs and VVPATs are kept.
Speaking on the sidelines of the meeting, the observer stressed on further enhancing the existing security measures and directed the Returning Officers to regularly audit the surveillance systems and maintain constant communication with the security personnel without any delay in case any unusual activity is reported.
Further, the Observer also highlighted the importance of public awareness regarding strong security measures, which is an essential step to enhance public confidence in the electoral process.
It is known that the Election Commission has announced to conduct assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir in three phases. Voting will be held on 18 September, 25 September and 1 October. Counting of votes will take place on 4 October.
–IANS
AKS/AS
