In a bid to ensure transparency and fairness in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, District Election Officer Ananya Mittal convened a crucial meeting with bankers from across the district at the Collectorate Auditorium. The meeting, attended by Deputy Development Commissioner Manish Kumar, PD ITDA cum Senior Officer of Expenditure Cell Dipankar Chaudhary, and other officials, aimed to outline guidelines and protocols for banking activities during the electoral process.
Mittal, emphasizing the importance of vigilance, reiterated the directives set forth by the Election Commission. According to these guidelines, any transaction amounting to 10 lakhs or more must be promptly reported to the Expenditure Cell. Furthermore, bankers were urged to exercise heightened scrutiny over transactions deemed suspicious or out of the ordinary. It was emphasized that strict monitoring of such transactions is essential to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
Bank representatives were instructed to diligently submit reports, using Form 12-D, to both the District Election Officer's Office and the Expenditure Cell. Special attention was drawn to instances of unusual cash withdrawals or withdrawals exceeding one lakh rupees, particularly if such transactions deviate from the account's typical activity over the preceding months.
In addition to transaction monitoring, banks were reminded of the importance of documentation, especially concerning the transportation of cash. Mittal stressed the necessity for banks to maintain comprehensive records for any cash-carrying vehicles. Whether transporting funds for ATM replenishment or inter-branch transfers, bank employees accompanying such vehicles must possess valid documentation to avoid potential repercussions.
The stringent directives underscored the Election Commission's commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the electoral process. Any lapses in adherence to these guidelines could result in legal action, as both flying squads and static magistrates have been tasked with enforcing compliance.
As the city prepares for the democratic exercise of elections, these measures serve as a testament to the concerted efforts to uphold democratic principles and ensure a level playing field for all candidates and voters alike.
No queues, no hassle: Your home now a polling station
Jamshedpur: In a move aimed at facilitating the democratic process, the Election Commission has introduced the option of voting from home for individuals aged 85 and above, as well as those with a disability of at least 40%. Recognizing the challenges faced by these segments of voters, the Election Commission has taken this significant step to ensure their participation in the electoral process without any hassle.
For the 09-Jamshedpur Lok Sabha constituency, the Election Commission has set the deadline for the submission of reports related to home voting by BLO (Booth Level Officer) for both AVSC (voters aged 85 and above) and AVPD (voters with at least 40% disability). This initiative aims to empower these voters by enabling them to exercise their franchise conveniently and securely from the comfort of their homes.
Ananya Mittal, the District Election Officer, highlighted that the district administration has undertaken necessary preparations to facilitate home voting for these categories of voters. He urged eligible voters to submit their applications before the deadline and take advantage of the opportunity to vote from home.
