Ensure Every Eligible Voter is Included: Divisional Commissioner Dr. Pulkundwar

Solapur : In a recent address, Divisional Commissioner Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar emphasized the importance of ensuring that no eligible voter is excluded from the voter list under the special brief revision program. The directive comes in preparation for the upcoming assembly elections, with a focus on quality training for sub-divisional officers and tehsildars involved in election duties. Dr. Pulkundwar was speaking at a meeting attended by Collector Kumar Ashirwad, Deputy Commissioner Poonam Mehta, Additional Collector Monika Singh Thakur, and other officials.

Dr. Pulkundwar highlighted that updating and cleaning voter lists is crucial for a transparent and fair election process. The Election Commission of India has implemented a special brief revision program to address discrepancies and ensure accuracy. On August 6, 2024, the draft list was published both online and at local electoral offices. He urged polling officers to check for errors and ensure all eligible voters are included in the upcoming assembly elections.

Voters are advised to verify their details in the draft list to avoid issues on polling day. Dr. Pulkundwar pointed out the importance of checking personal information such as name, address, gender, and other details. Corrections can be made through Application No. 8. Additionally, voters can object to the inclusion of names of those who do not reside at the listed addresses, with necessary verification procedures in place.

For the 2024 assembly elections, sub-divisional officers will act as Election Returning Officers, and tehsildars will serve as Assistant Election Returning Officers. Proper training for all election staff is a priority, with expert trainers appointed to ensure effective preparation. Dr. Pulkundwar also stressed the need for timely distribution of voter slips and training on using voting machines.

Collector Kumar Ashirwad announced that special brief revision programs will be conducted on August 10-11 and August 17-18, 2024, for voter registration, corrections, and deletions. The total voter count has increased from 35,78,972 in the final electoral roll of January 23, 2024, to 36,92,409 as of August 6, 2024. This includes a rise in the number of polling stations from 3,617 to 3,723. Citizens are encouraged to check their voter registration status online and use the provided links for any updates or registrations.

The election administration must ensure that political party representatives reach all voters and achieve 100% coverage. No funds should be accepted from political parties for voter lists or related activities. The voter search app should be regularly updated. Additionally, it has been noted that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are not present at voter registration centers and fail to assist political party representatives. Appropriate action should be taken against these BLOs. Political parties have requested detailed information about changes in polling stations and newly established ones.

Revenue Fortnight

Resident Deputy Collector Manisha Kumbhar provided an update on the activities conducted so far during the Revenue Fortnight, which began on August 1, before Divisional Commissioner Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar. The report included details about various schemes, such as the Chief Minister’s Ladki Bahini program, Youth Training Program, and Tirtha Darshan Yojana.

Office Cleanliness

District Administration Officer Vina Pawar shared the progress of the Swachh Office Sundar Office initiative, which is part of the Revenue Fortnight activities. This program aims to enhance the cleanliness and appearance of government offices.

Tree Plantation

Divisional Commissioner Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar oversaw a tree plantation drive in the Nijjan Bhawan area. During the event, Upper Collector Monika Singh and Resident Deputy Collector Manisha Kumbhar also participated in planting trees. Deputy Collector Revenue Amrit Natekar, Upazila Election Officer Ganesh Nirali, District Planning Officer Dilip Pawar, and Assistant District Planning Officer Pundalik Godse were present.