“If any internal or external force interferes and thinks that they can derail the elections, then they cannot do it”: CEC Rajiv Kumar

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, accompanied by Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, addressed a press conference in Jammu regarding the preparations for the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Key points from the conference include:

1. Election Security and Integrity: CEC Kumar emphasized that no internal or external force would be able to disrupt the elections. He assured that the process would be free and fair.

2. Election Timeline: Following the Supreme Court’s directive, assembly elections are scheduled to be held by September 30, 2024. The Election Commission plans to start the election process “very soon.”

3. Polling Infrastructure: – Approximately 11,838 polling stations will be set up, with an average of 735 voters per station. – The total number of electors stands at around 87.09 lakh. – There will be 90 assembly seats, including 74 for the general category, 7 for SCs, and 9 reserved for STs.

4. Instructions to District Magistrates (DMs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs): – Polling stations should be set up within 2 km, with transport facilities provided for voters in difficult terrains. – Ensure transparency in permissions and avoid last-minute changes to polling station locations. – Webcasting will be implemented at all polling stations where feasible.

5. Enforcement Measures: – Strict monitoring of heroin smuggling and drone activities. – Effective action against illicit liquor transportation, especially in the Kathua district. – 24×7 surveillance at critical border checkpoints with CCTV.

6. Special Measures for Kashmiri Migrants: – 26 special polling stations will be set up in Delhi, Jammu, and Udhampur. – The requirement for Form M has been removed for ease of voting. – Approximately 23,000 voters have already cast their votes in these special stations.

7. Accessibility for PwD and Elderly Voters: – Polling stations will be equipped with facilities such as chairs, ramps, and wheelchair support. – The Saksham App will assist PwD voters in accessing available facilities.These measures aim to ensure a smooth and inclusive election process in Jammu and Kashmir.

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