Excelsior Correspondent
BARAMULLA, Aug 19: The District Election Officer (DEO) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa today chaired a meeting with representatives of political parties to discuss preparations for smooth conduct of Assembly election.
During the meeting, the DEO informed all the representatives that the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has been in effect since the date of issuance of election notification and stressed the importance of strict adherence to the MCC to ensure fair and transparent elections.
The DEO emphasized to all the representatives in the meeting the necessity of obtaining permissions for rallies, processions and public meetings at least 48 hours in advance.
The political parties were also informed about the election time schedule and were urged to verify the updated electoral roll, which includes 908 polling stations across the district.
Meanwhile, the DEO provided detailed information on expenditure monitoring, setting a spending limit of Rs 40 lakh for election-related activities in every Assembly Constituency, and thoroughly guided them on obtaining necessary forms, permissions, and schedules that need to be followed.
Emphasizing the importance of cooperation and security, the DEO encouraged political parties to collaborate closely with authorities to ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process.
Additionally, the DEO discussed the role of the Postal Voting Center (PVC) and shared information on the procedures for First Level Checking (FLC) of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). This included details on the randomization, commissioning, and distribution of the machines.
The DEO also apprised the political parties about the home voting process, ensuring that all eligible voters, including those with special needs, have the opportunity to participate in the election.
Senior Superintendent of Police Baramulla, Gurinderpal Singh; Additional District Development Commissioner Baramulla, Syed Qamar Sajad; Superintendent of Police Sopore, Divya Dev; Deputy District Election Officer, Ab Rehman Bhat and other concerned officers besides Representatives of political parties attended the meeting.