Mail News Service
Jamshedpur: Political activity has intensified across Jharkhand as preparations for the long-pending municipal body elections gather pace. Despite the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, the State Election Commission Jharkhand has made it clear that municipal elections will be conducted as scheduled.
On Thursday, State Election Commissioner Alka Tiwari chaired a high-level review meeting to assess election preparedness. The meeting was attended by the Home Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), Secretary of Urban Development, and all Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) from across the state via video conferencing.
Districts Pulled Up Over Delayed Reports
During the review, the State Election Commissioner expressed dissatisfaction over delays by some districts in submitting mandatory reports. In particular, Godda, Dumka and Seraikela-Kharsawan were pulled up for failing to submit information related to the requirement, availability and repair status of ballot boxes. The districts were directed to furnish the details at the earliest.
Elections Unaffected by Electoral Roll Revision
Addressing the media after the meeting, State Election Commission Secretary Radheshyam Prasad said preparations for the municipal elections are nearly complete. He categorically stated that the Special Intensive Revision programme will not affect the conduct of the polls in any manner.
He further informed that training of election personnel, returning officers, observers and other officials will be completed within this month, well before the election notification is issued. The reservation for mayor and chairperson posts will also be finalised and made public shortly.
Clarifying on objections, he said there is no provision for fixing a time limit to raise objections against the Commission’s decisions.
Focus on Security and Expenditure
With elections due in 48 urban local bodies across Jharkhand, the Commission indicated that, barring technical hurdles, the municipal elections are likely to be completed before March. Special emphasis was laid on expenditure and security arrangements. The Urban Development and Housing Department Jharkhand was directed to assess required funds and seek expenditure details from districts.
Authorities were also instructed to review the requirement and availability of security forces to ensure smooth polling and maintain law and order at polling stations.
