89 polling teams deployed to various remote polling stations: Ri-Bhoi DC Arpit Upadhyaya

He further highlighted the logistical arrangements included provisions for voters unable to visit polling stations, particularly those aged 85 and above.

With the campaign for the first phase of Lok Sabha elections ending on Wednesday, the stage is all set for the big polling day in the northeastern state of Meghalaya on April 19 along with 20 other states and union territories.

Ahead of the voting in Ri-Bhoi District, 89 teams of polling personnel have been deployed to various remote polling stations from Nongpoh, the district headquarters, Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer of Ri-Bhoi district, Arpit Upadhyaya said assuring the public of comprehensive preparations to ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process.

Speaking to media, DC Upadhyaya said, “We are all geared to conduct elections on April 19, 89 teams have been departed so far today to the far flung areas and the remaining teams will be going tomorrow. The preparations are in full swing, with regard to the law and order issues, a very detailed security plan has been made and we are specially focusing on critical and vulnerable polling stations, the sensitive pockets and border areas.”

Highlighting the meticulous planning to address potential law and order concerns, he added, “We have 31 critical and 4 vulnerable polling stations. So for that adequate arrangements have been made. We have CAPFs and sufficient deployment of police force and also home guards to ensure that we conduct a free and fair elections peacefully”.

He further highlighted the logistical arrangements included provisions for voters unable to visit polling stations, particularly those aged 85 and above. 368 individuals opted for home voting, out of which 366 successfully cast their votes, while two individuals passed away during the course of voting.

Furthermore, he said that as the campaign for the phase 1 ended, the district entered a period of electoral silence, adhering to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), with strict directives to prevent campaign activities for the next 48 hours, ensuring the integrity of the process.

The deployment of polling personnel to remote areas reflects efforts to facilitate democratic participation while upholding transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

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