The Chief Election Officer (CEO) of Jammu and Kashmir, P K Pole, expressed optimism regarding the upcoming polling day in areas adjacent to the Line of Control (LoC), voicing hopes for a ceasefire along the border to ensure peaceful elections.
Addressing media personnel during a program under the Systematic Voter’s Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, Pole emphasized the importance of maintaining tranquility along the LoC, particularly on polling day.
“We are hopeful this time the elections in border areas will be conducted peacefully due to the prevailing ceasefire on the LoC from the past five years now,” Pole stated, highlighting the conducive atmosphere fostered by the prolonged ceasefire.
Pole outlined contingency plans in place to address potential challenges, including the utilization of Indian Air Force resources to transport polling materials, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and polling staff in case of adverse weather conditions or other logistical hurdles, such as the closure of the Razdan Pass in Bandipora district. Acknowledging the possibility of attempts to disrupt polling activities from across the border, Pole reassured that appropriate measures had been initiated to safeguard the electoral process. Drawing attention to the enthusiasm exhibited by the populace, particularly the youth, during SVEEP initiatives, Pole expressed confidence in a robust voter turnout on May 20 in Bandipora, underscoring the determination of citizens to exercise their democratic right.With preparations underway and security measures in place, the CEO’s reassurances reflect the concerted efforts to ensure the smooth conduct of elections in border regions, fostering democratic participation amidst challenging circumstances.