TFP Bureau, Raipur; March 28, 2024: The first phase of nominations for the Lok Sabha elections 2024 witnessed the validation of nomination papers for 11 candidates out of 12 in the Bastar Lok Sabha constituency. Mrs. Reena Babasaheb Kangale, Chief Electoral Officer, confirmed the scrutiny results, indicating 11 contenders vying for the seat. The withdrawal deadline for this phase is March 30, 2024, with voting scheduled for April 19, 2024.
However, the second phase, encompassing Mahasamund, Kanker, and Rajnandgaon Lok Sabha constituencies, saw no candidates filing nomination papers on the inaugural day. Chief Electoral Officer Mrs. Reena Kangale announced the commencement of the nomination process for the second phase today. Aspiring candidates have until April 4, 2024, to file their nominations, with scrutiny set for April 5 and withdrawal by April 8. Voting for the second phase is slated for April 26, 2024.
Surveillance Teams Seize Cash and Goods Valued at Rs 25 Crore Following Model Code of Conduct
The enforcement agencies, under the directive of Chief Electoral Officer Smt. Reena Babasaheb Kangale, have intensified efforts to uphold law and order during the Lok Sabha General Elections. Since the imposition of the Model Code of Conduct in the state, rigorous monitoring has led to the confiscation of illegal money and goods worth Rs 25 crore 8 lakh.
As per data from the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, cash amounting to Rs 5 crore 28 lakh has been seized as of March 28, alongside 17311 liters of illicit liquor valued at Rs 41 lakh. Additionally, 784 kg of drugs worth Rs 1 crore 48 lakh and 23 kg of precious jewelry amounting to Rs 94 lakh were also confiscated. Other seized materials tally up to Rs 16 lakh 96 thousand.
Free Medical Facilities for Officials and Employees Engaged in Election Duties
The Health and Family Welfare Department has issued an order ensuring free medical facilities for officials and employees engaged in election duties for the Lok Sabha General Election – 2024. Officers and employees undertaking election responsibilities will have access to free medical care in all government hospitals within the state.
In cases where necessary facilities are unavailable or during emergencies, treatment will be available in three private hospitals in Raipur and two outside the state. Notably, this initiative aims to support the smooth conduct of the Chhattisgarh Lok Sabha General Elections 2024, with designated hospitals offering medical aid both within and outside the state.
In instances where government hospitals lack requisite facilities, the State Nodal Agency, through the District Administration, will facilitate referrals under the Prime Minister Referral Jan Arogya Yojana and Chief Minister Health Insurance Scheme. Coordination for such referrals will be managed by Dr. Khemraj Sonwani, Deputy Director, State Nodal Agency, reachable at 98278-72102.
