SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2024
Team Herald
To prevent heatstroke among voters Lemonade, soft drinks, cold water, and medical facilities are available at every polling center, informs the chief election commission. Chief Electoral Officer Ramesh Verma expressed optimism, anticipating a voter turnout exceeding 80%, during a press conference in Panjim on Sunday.
To promote inclusivity, 43 model polling booths in North Goa and 45 in South Goa have been designated. Additionally, 20 women-only "Pink Booths" per district empower female voters, while 40 Green Polling Stations a green initiative will be held where all the polling officers along with the voters will plant saplings at a designated stretch in both north and south districts. This will spread a message that the polling team will be there for future generations. Special attention is given to Persons with Disabilities (PwD) with Divyang Polling Stations managed by PwD officials, and Youth Polling Stations introduced as part of Election Commission of India's initiative.
Innovative measures include unique polling booths set up at iconic locations such as heritage spots, aiming to engage voters and instill pride in the electoral process. Medical facilities, including ambulances, are provided at select polling stations, while urban and primary health centers stand ready for emergencies.
Efforts are underway to curb any violations, with 31 complaints of code of conduct breaches addressed by the chief election commission, resulting in suspensions of four employees. International observers from Bhutan and Mongolia, alongside journalists from Bhutan and Israel, are witnessing the process from May 5 to 8.
Officials are actively engaging with voters to address concerns, while stringent measures are in place to ensure a fair and orderly election. Police forces, including Central Armed Police, are deployed to maintain security, with mobile phones and gadgets prohibited within polling stations.
