Pics: Jeevan D’Costa
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Mar 16: “Udupi-Chikkamagaluru election preparations are already complete, and polling will be held on April 26,” said Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dr Vidyakumari.
Speaking at a press conference at the district commissioner's office, Dr Vidyakumari said, “The Udupi-Chikkamagaluru constituency consists of 8 assembly constituencies of Udupi and Chikkamagaluru districts. A total of 15,72,958 registered voters are in the constituency, including 7,62,558 male voters, 8,10,362 female voters, and 38 others. 1842 polling stations have been set up in the constituency. The process will end on June 06, 2024. Four ARO's have been appointed for conducting the process. Sixteen nodal officers for manpower management, training, material management, vehicle management, IT department, Sweep nodal, MCC, law and order, security plan, EVM management, expenditure monitoring teams have been set up. A total of 14 checkposts will be operational in Udupi district.”
“Many IT applications have also been set up for the smooth monitoring and conducting of the procedure. Suvidha application will be used for all permission-related processes for various programs and campaign activities. Applications like C-Vigil, voter helpline, Saksham will also be used. A new application namely ESMS- election seizure management system will be used for managing the seizure of violations of the code of conduct.
“A total of 14 checkposts have been set up in the district with immediate effect for monitoring. The teams located at the district headquarters will be monitoring all the activities. The model code of conduct will be effective till June 6, 2024,” she said.
Speaking about permissions for religious and other social programs, Dr Vidyakumari said, “Permissions have to be obtained for all religious and social programmes like temple fairs, marriage, and others. Even cricket matches should also obtain permissions. This is being done as a precautionary measure to avoid any violations of the code of conduct. Pre-booked programs can also be conducted by attaining necessary permissions. If political leaders are attending any social programs, it will be counted towards the expenditure.”
Zilla panchayat CEO Pratheek Bayal, superintendent of police Dr Arun K, ADC Mamata Devi and others were present.