Team Goemkarponn
PONDA: A meeting to review law and order and security arrangements for the upcoming by-election to the 21–Ponda Assembly Constituency was convened by IGP Goa Police Keshav Ram Chaurasia and South Goa Collector & District Election Officer Egna Cleetus in the presence of Police Observer Vinita Sahu.
The meeting was attended by senior officials including the ADM (Law & Order), SP South, SP (Election), DySPs and representatives from various departments.
During the meeting, preparedness for the smooth conduct of the election was reviewed. Officials informed that adequate law and order arrangements are in place, with two Additional District Magistrates already appointed. Flying Squad Teams, Static Surveillance Teams and Sector Magistrates have been deployed, and no vulnerable or critical polling stations have been identified.
Authorities also stated that polling personnel have been appointed and training schedules finalised. Management of EVMs and VVPATs, including randomisation and secure storage, is being carried out as per Election Commission of India guidelines.
Arrangements for postal ballots, including home voting for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, were also discussed. The role of District Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) in monitoring media and paid news was highlighted.
The Police Observer stressed the need for preventive measures, including inspection of arms manufacturing units and liquor production units to monitor input and output. Directions were also issued to regularly review the status of cases and check-post monitoring.
Special emphasis was laid on accessibility measures for persons with disabilities, including identification, transportation and polling station facilities. Various voter awareness activities were also planned.
Officials concluded that all necessary arrangements are in place for the free, fair and smooth conduct of the Ponda by-election.
