Focus on Voter List Correction, Youth Registration, and Election Preparedness

CHANDIGARH: In Anticipation of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission of India convened a pivotal review meeting in Chandigarh with Chief Electoral Officer Punjab, Sibin C, and all 23 Deputy Commissioners-cum-District Election Officers (DEOs). Led by Deputy Election Commissioner Hirdesh Kumar, the meeting centered on crucial aspects of election preparation, including the special revision of the voter list.

With 13 parliamentary constituencies at stake in the state of Punjab, this inaugural review meeting prioritized issues such as rectification of the voter list, the inclusion of new voters, and the removal of deceased voters from electoral rolls.

Deputy Election Commissioner Hirdesh Kumar underscored the existing disparities in the electoral roll, emphasizing the elector-population (EP) ratio, gender representation, and age group imbalances, particularly among young voters. The DEOs were tasked with ensuring the meticulous preparation of completely accurate voter lists, streamlining the entire election process. Special attention was also urged for economically disadvantaged individuals, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and transgender citizens.

Kumar urged the Deputy Commissioners to place particular emphasis on registering individuals in the 18-19 age bracket. Additionally, the meeting scrutinized the appointment of personnel for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. To maintain the integrity of the voter list, Deputy Election Commissioner Hirdesh Kumar directed the Deputy Commissioners to conduct thorough verifications before removing any names.

The Availability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) at District Headquarters was another topic of discussion. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and prescribed guidelines for the transportation and storage of EVMs were addressed. Furthermore, the meeting stressed the importance of separate storage facilities and the involvement of political parties in the First Level Checking (FLC) process. The provision of essential amenities such as ramps, drinking water, and toilets at each polling booth was also reviewed.