PANCHAYAT ELECTIONS: Poll arrangements reviewed in Malerkotla
Election observer Bhupinder Singh urged the government staff deputed on election duty to ensure every eligible voter exercised the franchise without coercion or discrimination.
Officials led by Additional District Election Officer Navdeep Kaur, Assistant Commissioner Gurmit Bansal, and SDMs Harbans Singh and Surinder Kaur assured the poll observer that no stone would be left unturned to make the democratic process of polling comfortable, safe and free for all voters intending to cast their votes at their respective polling booths on October 15.
After reviewing arrangements made by the administration for the safe custody of ballot boxes and ballot papers, besides preparedness of polling staff during rehearsals, the election observer held meetings with senior functionaries to elaborate guidelines of the State Election Commission on the subject.
The observer emphasised that any complaints received during the whole process of electioneering should be responded to and reported according to the guidelines.
Addressing a meeting at the District Election Office, he said, “Having learnt about the detailed instructions of the State Election Commission, all concerned should ensure that all guidelines are followed in letter and spirit.”
He advised the district authorities to make proactive arrangements for maintaining the sanctity of the election process by making it smooth, fair, transparent and pleasant for the electorate.
“These elections should be conducted in such an impartial manner that public trust in the electoral process and democracy is perpetuated,” he said.
