THE NEWS FREEDOM
CHANDIGARH, MARCH 18
Punjab’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Sibin C., on Monday convened a crucial meeting with representatives from major political parties in the state to deliberate on essential aspects of the impending elections. During the session, Sibin C. provided a comprehensive overview of the electoral process, spotlighting key statistics such as the total voter count (2,12,71,246), including demographics like male voters (1,11,92,959), female voters (1,00,77,543), transgender voters (744), Persons with Disabilities (PwD-1,57,257), Overseas Voters (1597), and the extensive network of polling stations (24,433).
Additionally, attendees were briefed on recent provisions allowing PwD voters and individuals aged 85 and above to opt for voting from home. Sibin C. also assured ample availability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), surpassing requirements by 150%, and reiterated the commitment to ensuring that all polling stations are equipped with necessary amenities, conveniently located within 2 kilometers of voters’ residences.
Further elaborating on the electoral intricacies, Sibin C. discussed candidate qualifications for Lok Sabha elections, disqualification provisions, nomination procedures, grounds for rejection of nominations, withdrawal rules, and symbol allotment regulations. The CEO underscored adherence to the Model Code of Conduct, emphasizing the need for ethical conduct by political parties and candidates.
Insights were also provided into the Suvidha portal, facilitating simplified nomination procedures and permissions for political parties. Through this platform, candidates can file nominations and affidavits online, schedule meetings with returning officers, and streamline administrative processes.
The meeting, attended by Additional CEOs Harish Nayyar and Abhijeet Kaplish, Joint CEO Sakkatar Singh Bal, and other officials, highlighted collaborative efforts towards ensuring transparent and fair elections in Punjab.