In preparation for the upcoming elections, District Election Officer Ananya Mittal has declared a dry day across East Singhbhum district from 5:00 pm on November 11 until 5:00 pm on November 13, and again on November 23, the counting day. This measure, implemented under Section 26 of the Narcotics Excise Act, aims to maintain public order and ensure smooth conduct of the election process on November 13.
In accordance with Section 135(c) of the Representation of People Act, 1951, additional guidelines have been issued, prohibiting the sale, distribution, or provision of alcoholic beverages in hotels, restaurants, schools, shops, or any other public or private places within the polling area during the specified period of 48 hours leading up to the close of polling.
The directive warns that any violation of these rules may result in penalties, including imprisonment of up to six months, a fine up to ₹2,000, or both. Additionally, any confiscated intoxicating substances will be seized and disposed of according to the law.
The District Election Officer has urged the public and business owners to comply with these regulations, as they are essential for maintaining peace and order during the election period. Authorities will conduct inspections to ensure adherence to the guidelines, and stringent actions will be taken against any breaches.
A training session for micro observers was conducted at Michael John Auditorium in Bistupur, focusing on their essential role during polling day. Key attendees included Police Observer A. Satish Ganesh, along with General Observers Ashwin Ashok Mudgal (49 - Jamshedpur), Sridhar Babu Addanki (48 - Jamshedpur), Kulange Vijay Amrut (47 - Jugsalai and 46 - Potka), Kiran Kaushal (45 - Ghatshila), and Raghul K. (44 - Baharagora), along with PD ITDA Dipankar Chaudhary.
The program emphasized that micro observers are responsible for overseeing the smooth execution of the polling process, starting from the day prior to polling. Observers were advised to arrive at the dispatch center one day in advance, accompany the polling team to the polling station, and later return with them to the receiving center after polling concludes. Micro observers were instructed to submit their reports directly to the designated General Observer, who will closely monitor their actions throughout the polling.
The training underscored that micro observers must arrive at polling stations on time to check for adequate preparations, ensure the presence of polling agents, verify the availability of indelible ink and voter registers, and inspect basic facilities at the site. Following the conclusion of polling, they must submit their findings in a formal report at the receiving center.
The attending General Observers reiterated the critical role of micro observers, particularly in high-risk or “vulnerable” booths, urging them to perform their duties with diligence and resolve any uncertainties by consulting senior officials. Observers highlighted the importance of clear communication, urging micro observers to immediately report any disturbances to district officials and the control room.
The session included practical guidance on maintaining polling station forms, overseeing the use of EVMs, ballot units, and presiding officers’ tasks. Observers were also briefed on VVPAT procedures, including mock polling with a minimum of 50 votes and the final sealing process.
