Hyderabad, Nov 22: In a video conference held on Tuesday, Vikas Raj, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Telangana, emphasized the need for submitting all reports to the Election Commission of India (ECI) within the specified timeframe. He stressed the importance of consolidation and prompt transmission of reports to the ECI.
During the conference, CEO Raj, along with Commissioner GHMC, DEO Hyderabad, District Election Officers, and Returning Officers, addressed key election preparations. Additional CEO Sri Lokesh Kumar and Joint CEO Sarfaraz Ahmad also attended the conference.
The CEO conducted a detailed review of Home Voting, a new initiative allowing senior citizens and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) to cast their votes at home. He highlighted meticulous planning, including training officials, maintaining voting secrecy through videography, and daily communication with political parties and candidates.
Home voting had commenced in most districts, providing a positive experience for voters who praised the administration and ECI for the innovative facility.
CEO Raj also assessed arrangements for hassle-free voting at voter facilitation centers, emphasizing a trouble-free experience for officials on election duty. This marks the first implementation of voting facilitation centers in Telangana.
The CEO confirmed the receipt of postal and EVM ballot papers, instructing careful verification and secure storage as per ECI guidelines. He also monitored the progress of EPIC printing and distribution, assuring completion before polling day.
Feedback on the second randomization of polling staff indicated sufficient availability, with dedicated district-level officers nominated for their welfare and logistical support.
Regarding EVMs, CEO Raj informed that commissioning would take place on the 23rd and 24th in all districts, with political party representatives and observers in attendance. He ensured the presence of ECIL engineers in all districts until the end of polling.
CEO Raj reviewed the distribution of Voter Information Slips (VIS), revealing that 2.20 crores out of 3.26 crores VIS had been distributed by November 20, 2023. The remaining distribution would be completed by November 23. He emphasized proper distribution protocols to prevent complaints and directed DEOs to conduct random checks in the field.
The CEO reminded DEOs about setting up Model Polling Stations reflecting Telangana’s tradition, culture, and eco-friendly principles. He stressed the importance of engaging with the media daily to promote democratic values and participation in the electoral process.
CEO Raj urged all DEOs to be vigilant and proactive until the completion of the entire election process.
