Team Goemkarponn
PONDA: In view of the upcoming bye-election to the 21-Ponda Assembly Constituency, a review meeting with all nodal officers was convened by Collector and District Election Officer (South Goa) Ms. Egna Cleetus, IAS, to assess overall preparedness, including the law and order situation. The meeting was held in the presence of Additional Collector-II Shri Ramesh Gaonkar and Deputy Collector, South-I, Shri Velton Tellis.
Senior officials including the ADM (Law & Order), DySP Ponda, Returning Officer (RO), Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) and representatives from various departments attended the meeting.
The District Election Officer reviewed key preparedness measures and issued directions to ensure smooth conduct of the election. It was informed that all polling stations will be fully set up before April 8, with inspections to be carried out by the DEO to verify readiness. Instructions were also given to ensure the presence of lady officers at polling stations and to complete all Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) within the stipulated timeframe.
Precautionary measures in view of the rain forecast have also been planned, and necessary instructions have already been conveyed to polling personnel during training sessions. Law and order enforcement, EVM and VVPAT preparedness, transportation planning, and deployment of Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) and Flying Squads were also reviewed, with emphasis on enhanced surveillance and increased vehicle checking.
The ARO informed that polling kits have been arranged, while the DEO stated that after the third randomisation, the final list of polling personnel will be handed over as per Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines.
Focus was also laid on voter-friendly arrangements, accessible facilities for persons with disabilities (PwD) and senior citizens, and proper training of polling personnel. The DEO further directed increased publicity of the PRO App through DIP and stressed strict adherence to SOPs during the critical last 72 hours, with all departments maintaining close coordination as per ECI guidelines.
SVEEP activities have already been conducted to create awareness among new voters and encourage greater participation in the electoral process.
