Chennai, April 12 (IANS). The Election Commission will begin distribution of voter identity slips or booth slips statewide from Sunday, an important step in the preparations for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections to be held on April 23.
Polling Level Officers (PLOs) will go door-to-door and distribute these slips directly to voters, ensuring that every eligible citizen is informed and prepared before polling day.
The authorities have also allowed assistance from authorized agents of political parties to speed up the distribution process.
As per the Election Commission’s instructions, a total of 5.73 crore voters across Tamil Nadu are expected to receive booth slips at least five days before voting. The objective of this initiative is to increase awareness among voters, reduce last-minute confusion and streamline the voting process.
According to the information, the Commission has redesigned the booth slip for this election. This slip contains essential information like voter’s part number, serial number and polling station number, making identification easy at polling stations. It also has a QR code, through which additional digital information can be obtained.
Meanwhile, elaborate arrangements have been made to manage the large-scale electoral process across the state. A total of 4,023 candidates are contesting from 234 constituencies, reflecting a highly competitive political scenario. To ensure convenience and efficiency, the Election Commission has set up 75,097 polling stations including supplementary centres.
As per standard guidelines, a maximum of 1,200 voters can vote per polling booth, but after the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists, this average has now come down to about 756 voters per booth. Officials say this will help reduce overcrowding and waiting time.
75,064 personnel have been deployed across the state to conduct polling and a dedicated polling level officer has been appointed at each polling station.
With the distribution of booth slips about to begin and logistics arrangements completed, election officials are focused on ensuring maximum voter participation and a smooth, transparent voting process across Tamil Nadu.
–IANS
SAK/PM