State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha has announced that preparations are underway to ensure the upcoming Gram Panchayat and Urban Local Body elections are conducted in a peaceful, free, and fair manner. Speaking to the media in Tirupati on Saturday, Mr. Punetha emphasized that all candidates must be able to file nominations freely and that voters should be able to exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation.
Mr. Punetha held a review meeting with Superintendents of Police from 12 districts, alongside senior officials from the Municipal Administration and Panchayat Raj departments. The commission has finalized ward-wise electoral rolls and completed the identification of polling stations, including those categorized as sensitive and highly sensitive. According to the Commissioner, the electoral process is being managed in a systematic manner to ensure all stages are completed within the designated timeframe.
The Gram Panchayat elections are scheduled to take place in three phases. The notification for the first phase was issued on November 13, while the notification for the second phase is set for November 16. Officials are currently reviewing security arrangements in areas identified as prone to law and order issues, with directives issued to deploy additional forces wherever necessary.
Regarding the prospect of unanimous elections, Mr. Punetha noted that out of 777 Gram Panchayats in Tirupati district, approximately 200 are expected to be elected unanimously. He stated that police personnel earmarked for these areas could be redeployed to more sensitive locations if needed. However, the Commissioner stressed that such unanimous outcomes must be entirely voluntary and transparent, and warned against any form of pressure or coercion.
Key facts
- State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha announced the elections will be conducted in three phases.
- Notifications for the first and second phases were scheduled for November 13 and November 16, respectively.
- In Tirupati district, 200 out of 777 Gram Panchayats are expected to witness unanimous elections.
- Review meetings were held with Superintendents of Police representing 12 districts.
- The commission has finalized ward-wise electoral rolls and identified sensitive polling stations.
Why it matters
The emphasis on security and administrative coordination aims to prevent untoward incidents during the voting process. By identifying sensitive areas early and ensuring that unanimous elections occur without intimidation, the Commission seeks to maintain the integrity of the local electoral process.
Source: The Hindu
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