Directs to strictly enforce the Model Code of Conduct and to dispose of complaints in a time-bound manner
Also instructs to keep strict vigil till the completion of election process as Tarn Taran is a border district
CEO directs to install cameras at all polling stations; six inter-district checkpoints already operational
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh-
Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Punjab, Sibin C, on Friday reviewed the preparations for the Tarn Taran Assembly bye-election with the Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Election Officer, Rahul, SSP Dr. Ravjot Grewal, and other district officials through video conferencing.
During the meeting, the Chief Electoral Officer directed that, since the Tarn Taran constituency lies along the international border, strict vigilance must be maintained throughout the election process, particularly during the 72, 48, and 24 hours preceding the poll. He instructed that the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) must be implemented strictly and all complaints of MCC violations should be disposed of in a time-bound manner.
Sibin C directed the District Election Officer (DEO) to ensure adequate arrangements and security at polling stations, counting halls, and strong rooms. He also instructed that facilities like drinking water, waiting areas, toilets, and wheelchairs for PwD voters should be provided at polling stations to facilitate voters’ convenience. He also instructed the DEO to ensure 100% webcasting by installing cameras and to intensify SWEEP activities to increase voter participation.
The CEO directed the SSP to increase strictness and maintain surveillance at check-posts with the help of CCTV cameras to curb the illegal trafficking of drugs, liquor, cash, and other goods. He further stated that immediate action should be taken against anyone attempting to distribute cash or other items (freebies) to lure voters during the elections. He also instructed to spread maximum awareness about the c-VIGIL app so that voters can register complaints without fear.
The District officers informed that a total of 222 polling stations (60 urban and 162 rural) have been set up at 114 locations for voting. Out of these, 100 polling stations have been declared vulnerable so far. Additionally, more than a dozen polling stations have been set up in villages near the international border, where stringent security arrangements will be made. They further informed that 1435 police personnel and other security forces have been deployed so far.
The district officials stated that to strengthen security arrangements, 6 check-posts have been established at the borders connecting with Kapurthala and Amritsar districts, and they are operational round-the-clock to monitor all activities closely. The helpline number 1950 has been activated round the clock for registering any type of complaint. They also informed that 6 Flying Squad teams with technically equipped vehicles are patrolling the roads 24 hours to monitor any activity in the constituency.
They affirmed that the bye-election would be conducted in accordance with the Acts, Rules and guidelines of the Election Commission of India. 9 Model Polling Booths and 3 all Women managed Polling Booths will be established in the constituency. It is notable that the total number of voters in the Tarn Taran constituency is 1,93,742, which includes 1,01,494 male voters and 92,240 female voters.
Joint CEO Sakattar Singh Bal, Returning Officer Gurmeet Singh (SDM Tarn Taran), and other officials from the CEO's office and the district were present in the meeting.