Chief Electoral Officer Addresses Key Details for Assembly Elections Phase One
- Crucial Insights and Preparations Shared Ahead of the Voting Day
TFP Bureau, Raipur; Nov 6, 2023: The Chief Electoral Officer conducted a comprehensive press conference today, elucidating essential details related to the first phase of the Assembly Elections 2023. With an eye on the scheduled polling day of November 7, the officer outlined a series of significant facts and arrangements concerning the electoral process.
Insights on Assembly Constituencies
A total of 20 assembly constituencies are set for voting on November 7. Among these, 223 candidates will contest, comprising 198 men and 25 women. The voting time spans across these constituencies, with various locations accommodating voting between 7:00 am to 3:00 pm and others between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Voter Statistics and Division
The state boasts a total of 40,78,681 voters for the first phase, including 19,93,937 male voters, 20,84,675 female voters, and 69 third gender voters. The distribution across age groups and sex ratios indicates the diverse composition of the voter population.
Past Participation and Anticipated Turnout
The voting percentage in the 18 constituencies that went to polls in the 2018 Assembly Elections was noted at 76.47%. The current phase showcases the creation of dedicated polling stations, including Sangwari polling stations, those operated by disabled persons, and youth-run polling stations, all with an aim to facilitate smooth and inclusive voting.
Arrangements and Security Measures
Comprehensive measures have been taken to ensure the security and fairness of the voting process across all 20 assembly constituencies. A total of 21,216 polling personnel, alongside a reserve of 4204 personnel, have been deployed to conduct the elections effectively.
Preparations and Alternative Documents for Voters
With a focus on accessible voting, the conference highlighted the availability of 12 alternative photo documents, allowing voters to present valid identification beyond the traditional voter identification card. Documents including Aadhar card, MNREGA Job Card, and Indian passport will be accepted, among others, facilitating a streamlined voting process.
Election Machinery and Webcasting Facilities
Out of the 5304 polling stations, 2431 have been equipped with webcasting facilities, empowering the Election Commission of India to oversee these stations closely. Additionally, voter information slips have been successfully distributed, while an ASD List (Absentee Shifted, Dead) has been prepared for undelivered slips.
The Polling Day Arrangements
To ensure a seamless voting process, measures such as the presence of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) at every polling station will be implemented. The conference also outlined the details of voting machines, including Control Units (CU), Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT), and Ballot Units (BU), distributed across the 20 assembly constituencies.
The press conference provided a comprehensive overview of the logistical, demographic, and administrative facets, ensuring transparency and readiness ahead of the pivotal voting day.
