As the three-tier panchayat elections will be held in the State early next year, the State Election Commissioner (SEC) on Thursday informed that preparations for the elections are in a final stage.
SEC Aditya Padhi said printing of ballot papers is underway at the Government Press. Besides, total 66 symbols to be used by candidates in the elections to the posts of Samiti Members, Sarpanches and Ward Members have been released.
Of the 66 symbols, 15 are meant for candidates for Ward Members, 32 for Sarpanches and 19 for Samiti Members.
Besides, 19 additional symbols have been released for Independent candidates for Zilla Parishad Members. The symbols will be allotted to candidates in Odia alphabetical order. Those nominated by different parties would contest for Zilla Parishad Members on party symbols, he informed.
Special guidelines would be issued later for the elections keeping in view the Covid-19 situation, the SEC added.
