First phase of 18th Lok Sabha election today
Source: Chronicle News Service / CEO Manipur
Imphal, April 18 2024:
As the country gears up for the first phase of the general elections to the 18th Lok Sabha, scheduled to take place on Friday, elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure smooth conduct of the electoral process across the state as well.
With voters in 32 assembly segments, out of the state's 60 assembly constituencies, which fall under the Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituency and 15 assembly segments in the Outer Manipur (Scheduled Tribe) Parliamentary Constituency set to cast their ballots, the election machinery is in full swing.
A total of 15,44,652 voters, consisting of 7,41,849 male, 8,02,557 female, and 246 transgender, are eligible to exercise their democratic right in Phase-I of the elections, for which extensive network of 2107 polling stations has been established, including four 'P-3' and 96 'P-2' polling stations, ensuring accessibility and convenience for voters across the state.
Notably, efforts towards inclusivity and gender parity are evident with 645 polling stations to be exclusively managed by women polling personnel, underscoring the commitment towards fostering gender equality in the electoral process.
Furthermore, two polling stations have been designated for exclusive management by personnel with disabilities (PwD), emphasising inclusivity and accessibility for all voters.
In recognition of the challenges faced by internally displaced voters, 85 special polling stations have been set up in different districts, to cater to the needs of 18,091 Internally Displaced Voters, thereby encouraging every eligible citizen to participate in the electoral process.
Ensuring the integrity and transparency of the electoral process, arrangements have also been made for webcasting/videography in 1256 polling stations, while adequate deployment of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel at all polling stations will aid in maintaining law and order.
Accessibility measures have been incorporated to facilitate the participation of all voters, including pick-up/drop facilities for PwD and aged electors, wheelchair facilities, and the engagement of volunteers at each polling station to provide assistance, if needed.
Technological interventions play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and transparency of the electoral process, with the movement of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) being tracked via the e-Traccar App.
Additionally, the Poll Star App enables timely reporting of voter turnout and other vital information by polling officials, contributing to real-time monitoring and response.
To uphold the sanctity of the electoral process, certain restrictions have been imposed, including prohibition of canvassing within 100 metres of polling stations, use of cellular phones, and setting up campaign-related materials within the vicinity of polling booths.
All the eligible voters are urged to come out in large numbers and exercise their franchise, realising importance of active participation in the democratic process.
Voters are reminded to carry their Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) or one of the 12 alternative identity documents for establishing their identity at the polling stations, -ensuring a free, fair, and inclusive electoral process for all.
The 12 alternative identity documents for establishing identity of electors at the polling stations are Aadhaar Card, MNREGA Job Card, Passbooks with photograph issued by Bank/Post Office, Health Insurance Smart Card issued under the scheme of Ministry of Labour, Driving License, PAN Card, Smart Card issued by RGI under NPR, Indian Passport, Pension document with photograph, Service Identity Cards with photograph issued to employees by Central/State Government/PSUs/Public Limited Companies, official identity cards issued to MPs/ MLAs/MLCs and Unique Disability ID (UDID) Card issued by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.
Comment
