Srinagar, Mar27: In anticipation of the forthcoming LokSabha Elections for the 02-Srinagar Parliamentary Constituency, a meeting convened under the leadership of the District Election Officer (DEO) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, was held today at the Meeting Hall of the DC Office Complex.

The DEO conducted a comprehensive review of the preparations with Assistant Returning Officers, focusing on arrangements at Polling Stations, Strong Rooms, and Counting Centres across Srinagar. Additionally, the ongoing SVEEP (Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation) campaign in the district was evaluated.

During the session, the DEO emphasized the importance of ensuring all necessary facilities at the designated 929 polling stations, including the provision of Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF). Furthermore, he underscored the need to formulate a proactive action plan for the welfare of polling staff in accordance with Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines.

Dr. Bilal urged the Nodal Officer for SVEEP/AMF to intensify awareness campaigns, particularly targeting young voters, to maximize voter turnout.

Efforts towards achieving maximum participation were highlighted, with instructions given to officials from various departments including R&B, PDD, and PHE to collaborate closely to fulfill all assigned tasks related to the conduct of the LokSabha elections in 2024. Ensuring AMF for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) Voters at every Polling Station was emphasized, including provisions such as permanent ramps, drinking water, and toilet facilities as per ECI norms.

The DEO stressed the importance of facilitating voting by Postal Ballots for various categories of voters, including service voters and migrant electors, emphasizing the need for smooth and hassle-free exercise of their franchise.

Officials were urged to maintain the highest standards of electoral conduct, in adherence to electoral laws and regulations, ensuring the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.

In terms of training for polling staff, the DEO instructed the establishment of facilitation centers in all training centers across the nine Assembly segments of the District.

The meeting saw the participation of Assistant Returning Officers, Superintendent of Police, Deputy District Election Officer, Nodal Officer for SVEEP/AMF, as well as officials from R&B, PDD, PHE, and other relevant departments.