TFP Bureau, Raipur, February 19, 2024: Chief Electoral Officer Mrs. Reena Baba Saheb Kangale emphasized the pivotal role of maintaining credibility, fairness, and transparency in elections during the inauguration of a certification program for Returning Officers and Assistant Returning Officers. The program, organized in accordance with the directives of the Election Commission of India ahead of the Lok Sabha General Elections, aims to equip officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure smooth and unbiased electoral processes.
Addressing the gathering, Mrs. Kangale underscored that the credibility of an election officer is demonstrated through their commitment to upholding these principles in every aspect of their work. She urged participants to strive for excellence and efficiency, drawing upon the lessons learned from previous electoral endeavors, notably the Assembly Elections of 2023.
The two-day orientation program for newly appointed District Election Officers and Sub-District Election Officers commenced alongside the certification program. Mrs. Kangale called for collaborative efforts to enhance the electoral process, echoing the success achieved during the previous Assembly Elections.
In attendance at the inauguration were Additional Chief Electoral Officer Mr. Nilesh Kumar Mahadev Kshirsagar, Joint Chief Electoral Officer Mr. P.S. Dhruv, Dr. K.R.R. Singh, and other senior officials from the Chief Electoral Officer’s office.
During the training sessions, participants will receive comprehensive guidance on their roles and responsibilities, including voter list revisions, adherence to the model code of conduct, and other crucial aspects essential for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Mrs. Kangale urged officers to discharge their duties with diligence and integrity to ensure free and fair elections.
Expert trainers, including national-level master trainers and experienced state-level trainers, will cover topics such as Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and VVPAT usage, facilities for polling teams and disabled voters, media monitoring, vote counting procedures, and the application of information technology in electoral processes.
Meanwhile, the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) is conducting a five-day certification program for Assistant Returning Officers at the Chhattisgarh Administration Academy, Nimora. A total of 11 Returning Officers, 15 District Election Officers, 33 Sub-District Election Officers, and 90 Assistant Returning Officers are participating in the training, reflecting a concerted effort to ensure the smooth conduct of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024.
