polling-station-in-jk-s-kathua-brings-right-to-vote-to-the-border

The district administration in Kathua has unveiled a model polling station near the zero line of the India-Pakistan international border in Hiranagar, to create awareness amongst the voters to ensure maximum participation in the upcoming LS polls.

What’s unique about this polling station is, that it is located just over 500 meters from the border” Government High School Kadyala this particular station has been set up is transformed into a vibrant hub adorned with Tricolor Balloons, welcoming voters to experience the festival-like atmosphere.

 

The polling station was set up with the help of the Election Office Kathua, under the leadership of the District Election Officer (DEO), Dr Rakesh Minhas.

 

A special election in Jammu and Kashmir for many reasons, one of which is that this will be the first time that a major electoral event will be conducted in the UT after the revocation of Article 370 from the region.

 

To ensure accessibility and comfort, the station is equipped with “pink bathrooms for female voters, separate facilities for male voters, clean drinking water, and ramps for those with disabilities, all precisely constructed to improve the voting experience.”

 

The Model Polling Station also has a large concentration of flower plants, which lend greenery to the overall environment of the polling station to appease the voters.

 

Electricity provisions include appropriate lighting and fans, while police and CAPF officials protect all voters' safety and security.

 

Several mock drills, including scenarios for regular voting, were organised and arrangements for all-female staff booths (Pink Booths), and voters with impairments. were made.

 

Local male, female, and PwD voters took part in the mock polls, which provided a realistic representation of the complete voting procedure.

 

Dr Rakesh Minhas, DEO Kathua, commented on the effort, emphasising the need for voter education and involvement in building a strong democratic culture.

 

He voiced optimism that the Model Polling Station and instructive video will considerably increase voter turnout and involvement in future elections.

 

Kathua district is part of the Udhampur parliamentary constituency, which will go to the polls in the first round on April 19 to decide the fate of 12 candidates, including Union Minister Jitendra Singh, who is seeking re-election for the third time.