From John K. Kaping
UKHRUL, Jan 16: DC Ukhrul and observers and assistant observers of the three assembly constituencies of the district held a series of meetings on different aspects of the forthcoming assembly elections at the chamber of the returning officer here today.
The marathon session deliberated on various issues related to election expenditure accountings, security aspects, electronic voting machines (EVMs) and ‘worry list’ trainings.
The high-level meeting was attended by Sahail Ali, General Observer, Harsh Prakash, Expenditure Observer, Alok Kumar, Security Observer, assistance observers RK Sanjaoba and Standhope A Shatsang along with the top police officers including Ukhrul SP.
A reliable source disclosed that with a view to ensure free and fair poll in the district, the meeting took up the ‘worry list’ that included precautionary measures to subside or abrogate any unwanted elements leading to the public apprehension or derailing peaceful and democratic elections. Other highlights were discussions on stopping proxy voting or impersonation, drill on the rules advocated in the election code of conduct, new EC order on photographing of voters in all the polling stations.
Also, strong security cover for the candidates, agents, workers and the pubic voters was discussed and worked-out during the meeting. In this regard, residents of Ukhrul district have been told to assist and co-operate with election officials.
The public have also been asked to refrain from organizing or participating at any sort of political rally without the prior permission of the district administration.
With regards to the matter of election expenditure, the source added that a brief but thorough examination of the candidates’ accounts took place. Further, the deployment of the Central Para Military Forces across the district was okayed.