Chandigarh,, June 16
Punjab Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sibin C conducted a video conference meeting on Monday to oversee preparations for the by-election in the 64-Ludhiana West Assembly Constituency. The meeting included Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Election Officer Himanshu Jain, Commissioner of Police Swapan Sharma, Returning Officer Rupinder Pal Singh, and other senior officials.
The CEO issued directives for heightened vigilance during the last 72, 48, and 24 hours before polling on June 19, extending until the election process concludes. He ordered that all outsiders, including political leaders, must leave the constituency after the campaign ends at 6 PM on June 17. Additionally, he stressed the need for 24/7 CCTV surveillance to prevent illegal distribution or smuggling of liquor, cash, drugs, or other inducements, with strict action mandated against any attempts to influence voters through cash or freebies.
Considering the high temperatures, Sibin C instructed officials to ensure voter comfort at polling stations with facilities like drinking water, ‘chhabil’, waiting areas, toilets, and sheds. He also encouraged voters to adhere to the Health Department’s COVID-19 advisory guidelines.
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The CEO reviewed arrangements for live webcasting at all polling stations, as well as facilities at polling booths, strong rooms, counting halls, and medical provisions. He emphasized prompt action against any violations of the Model Code of Conduct as per Election Commission guidelines.
The Deputy Commissioner and Police Commissioner assured the CEO that all preparations are in place for a smooth election process in line with Election Commission directives, and the instructions from the meeting will be implemented promptly. Additional CEO Harish Nayar, Joint CEO Sakatar Singh Bal, Election Officer Anju Bala, and other senior officials from the CEO’s office were also present.
Key Election Details
Sibin C shared that the Ludhiana West constituency has 1,74,437 registered voters, including 89,602 males, 84,825 females, and 10 third-gender voters. A total of 194 polling booths have been established across 66 locations, featuring 10 model polling booths, one all-women-managed booth, one eco-friendly “green” booth, and one booth operated by PWD staff. Additionally, 13 booths have been identified as critical, with paramilitary forces deployed for security.
To assist senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and voters with medical issues, home voting was facilitated, benefiting 239 voters. Voting will occur on June 19 from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with vote counting scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM on June 23 at Khalsa College for Women, Ludhiana, designated as the counting center. Security checkpoints have been set up at 54 locations across the constituency, with all activities under close surveillance by security forces.
