TFP Bureau, Raipur; April 2,2024: In a press conference held on 2nd April 2024, the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer provided updates on various aspects of the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections 2024.
1. First Phase Nominations and Ballot Paper Printing: For the first phase of the 10-Bastar Lok Sabha constituency, a total of 17 nominations were received, with 11 candidates contesting the election. The printing of ballot papers for this phase has been completed after the publication of Form 7A.
2. Second Phase Nominations: Nominations for the second phase in three Lok Sabha constituencies – 6-Rajnandgaon, 9-Mahasamund, and 11-Kanker, began on 28th March 2024. As of now, 31 nominations from 20 candidates have been received. Detailed constituency-wise nomination details were provided.
3. Finalization of Electoral Rolls: The electoral roll for eight assembly constituencies under the Bastar Lok Sabha constituency was finalized on 27th March 2024. The total number of electors in this phase is 14,72,207, including male, female, and third-gender voters. The final published list has been made available on the office’s website.
4. Polling Stations: A total of 1961 polling stations, including 4 assistant polling stations, have been designated for the first phase.
5. Disabled Voters: The first phase will see 12,703 disabled voters exercising their franchise.
6. Service Electors: A total of 1603 service electors have been sent electronic postal ballots, with their return to the Returning Officer scheduled.
7. Randomization of EVM Machines: The first randomization of EVM machines has been completed at the District Election Officer level, ensuring availability as per prescribed standards.
8. Postal Ballot Applications: A total of 140 senior citizens and 114 disabled individuals have applied for voting through postal ballots for the first phase.
9. Code of Conduct Violations: The office has received 217 complaints of code of conduct violations, with action taken on 149 complaints.
10. Permissions for Publicity: 287 applications related to various permissions for publicity have been received, with 231 approved and 31 cancelled.
11. Removal of Banners and Posters: A significant number of banners, posters, and wall writings have been removed during the code of conduct period.
12. Seizure Report: The seizure report during the code of conduct period includes cash, liquor, drugs/narcotics, precious metals, and other items, with a total value of 30.47 crores.
