Zonal officers’ training focuses on smooth fair polling as per ECI procedures

In view of the Lok Sabha General Election scheduled for April 19, 2024,General Election Observer Mr. G.P. Patil chaireda consultation meeting on Friday for zonal officers at the Salem District Collectorate. Chaired by General Election Observer Mr. G.P. Patil. The meeting was attended by District Election Officer and District Collector Dr. R Brinda Devi, along with other officials.
With 3,260 polling centers established across 11 assembly constituencies in Salem district, preparations are in full swing. Notably, 1,766 polling booths are designated within 6 assembly constituencies under the Salem Lok Sabha constituency.
Today's session focused on training 172  Block Development Officers, Deputy Thasildhars adn Deputy Block Development Officers tasked with overseeing polling centers under the Salem Lok Sabha constituency. 
The training emphasized adherence to Election Commission guidelines to ensure smooth conduct on election day.
Particular attention was drawn to the monitoring of polling procedures by Chief Electoral Officers, Election General Observers, and District Returning Officers via surveillance cameras installed at polling centers. 
It was stressed that all officers, including police personnel, commence their duties punctually, and equipment such as voting machines undergo thorough checks.
Regarding voter identification, various documents including Voter ID Cards, Aadhaar Cards, and government-issued IDs were highlighted as acceptable proofs of identity. 
However, the Voter Information Card was clarified to be solely for guidance and not a valid ID at polling booths.
Moreover, officials were reminded to provide essential amenities such as drinking water, toilets, and shelter from the sun's heat at polling centers.Addressing concerns about electoral conduct, attendees were urged to report any issues to the General Election Observer for appropriate action.