Punjab Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sibin C on Monday conducted a video conference to assess preparations for the upcoming by-election in the 64-Ludhiana West Assembly constituency.
During the review meeting, the CEO directed district officials to maintain heightened vigilance, particularly during the final 72, 48, and 24 hours leading up to polling, and until the election process concludes. He underlined the critical importance of maintaining law and order and ensuring a free and fair election.
Sibin C instructed that all outsiders, including political leaders, must vacate the constituency after the campaign period ends at 6 pm on June 17.
He further emphasised the need for continuous CCTV surveillance to curb the illegal distribution of liquor, cash, drugs, or other inducements aimed at influencing voters.
The CEO's directives aim to tighten security and uphold electoral integrity as the bypoll draws near. He directed officials to act promptly and firmly on any complaints related to attempts to influence voters through the distribution of cash or freebies during the Ludhiana West bypoll.
Acknowledging the ongoing heatwave, the CEO also instructed authorities to ensure proper amenities at polling stations, including drinking water, chhabils, shaded waiting areas, toilets, and other essential facilities to provide comfort to voters. He also urged officials to promote adherence to COVID-19 advisory guidelines issued by the Health Department.
Sibin C reviewed the live webcasting setup for 100 per cent of polling stations to enable real-time monitoring and took stock of arrangements at polling booths, strong rooms, counting halls, and medical facilities. He reiterated that any violations of the Model Code of Conduct must be dealt with promptly in accordance with Election Commission guidelines.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Election Officer Himanshu Jain, Commissioner of Police Swapan Sharma, and Returning Officer Rupinder Pal Singh.
The DC-cum-District Election Officer and the Police Commissioner assured the CEO that all arrangements for the by-election are in place and the election process will be conducted smoothly and in full compliance with Election Commission protocols. They also assured that all directives issued during the meeting would be implemented without delay.
Sibin C shared that the total number of registered voters in the Ludhiana West constituency stands at 1,74,437, comprising 89,602 male voters, 84,825 female voters, and 10 third-gender voters.
A total of 194 polling booths have been established at 66 locations for the by-election. These include 10 model polling booths, one all-women-managed booth, one eco-friendly green booth, and one booth operated by persons with disabilities (PWD) staff. Additionally, 13 polling booths have been identified as critical, where paramilitary forces will be deployed.
To facilitate senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and voters with medical issues, home voting was conducted. A total of 239 voters availed of this facility.
The CEO stated that voting will take place on June 19 from 7 am to 6 pm, and the counting of votes will begin at 8 am on June 23 at Khalsa College for Women, Ludhiana, which has been designated as the counting centre.
He added that 54 security checkpoints have been established across the constituency, and all election-related activities are being closely monitored by security agencies.
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