As Dibrugarh prepares for single-phase Assembly elections on April 9, the district administration has set up 1,322 polling stations across six constituencies, with 300 to be managed entirely by women, Deputy Commissioner Bikram Kairi said, outlining measures to ensure accessibility and smooth conduct.
Kairi said five polling stations are located in riverine pockets along the Brahmaputra, where polling personnel will travel by boat to reach voters. Transport and logistical arrangements have been made to enable residents in these remote areas to cast their votes within their villages.
A key feature of this election is the rise in women-managed polling stations. As many as 300 booths will be operated solely by women staff, reflecting increased participation and confidence among female personnel during training sessions.
The district’s preparations centre on strengthening last-mile connectivity in difficult terrain while ensuring inclusive voter participation. Efforts are aimed at conducting polling with minimal disruption despite geographical challenges.
At the state level, the Election Commission of India conducted an online review and training session on March 25 with District Election Officers, police
officials and senior authorities to assess preparedness for the polls.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar had earlier emphasised that polling in Assam must be conducted in a violence-free, intimidation-free and inducement-free environment, ensuring voters can exercise their franchise without fear.
The review covered polling station facilities, electronic voting machine (EVM) management, logistics, staff training, law and order arrangements, and voter outreach measures. District authorities have been directed to distribute Voter Information Slips at least five days ahead of polling, along with voter guides for every household. Braille-enabled slips will also be provided for visually impaired voters.
Special arrangements have also been made for safety and rescue operations in riverine regions, given the unique challenges posed by Assam’s terrain.
Polling for all 126 Assembly constituencies in the state will take place in a single phase on April 9, with counting scheduled for May 4.