PANJIM: In view of the sweltering heat and to prevent heatstroke among voters, lemonade/soft drinks, cold water, and medical facilities are being made available at every polling centre, for the May 7 Lok Sabha election, as informed by the Election Commission office.
Chief Electoral Officer Ramesh Verma expressed optimism, anticipating a voter turnout exceeding 80 per cent.
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 to empower female voters, while at 40 Green Polling Stations, all the polling officers along with the voters will plant saplings at a designated stretch in both North and South districts. This will spread the 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 centres will be ready for emergencies.
Efforts are underway to curb any violations, with 31 complaints of code of conduct breaches addressed by the 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.
The 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.
