Political Parties Briefed on Election Readiness
The North Tripura district administration on Friday held a preparatory meeting with representatives of various political parties to review election-related arrangements. The meeting took place at the District Magistrate’s conference hall under the chairmanship of District Magistrate and Election Officer Chandni Chandran.
The interaction aimed to ensure transparency and coordination ahead of the upcoming by-election in the 56-Dharmanagar Assembly constituency.
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Senior Officials and Party Representatives Attend
Several senior district officials attended the meeting to address procedural and security-related aspects. These included Additional District Magistrate Bijoy Sinha, Dharmanagar Sub-Divisional Magistrate Debjani Choudhury, Additional Superintendent of Police Kamal Debbarma, and District Controller Soma Saha.
Representatives from major political parties were also present. These included the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Communist Party of India (Marxist), Indian National Congress (INC), and All India Trinamool Congress (AITC). Their participation reflected the importance of collective oversight in the electoral process.
EVM and VVPAT Checking Dates Announced
During the meeting, the District Magistrate announced the schedule for the first-level checking of Electronic Voting Machines and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail units. Officials will conduct the verification process on January 16 and 17.
The checking will take place specifically for the 56-Dharmanagar Assembly constituency. According to the administration, this step is crucial to ensure that all machines function properly before polling.
Moreover, a district-level team has already been formed to carry out the checking process in a systematic and transparent manner.
Political Parties to Remain Present During Verification
Election officials stressed that representatives from all recognised political parties must remain present during the first-level checking of EVMs and VVPATs. Their presence, officials said, will help maintain confidence in the electoral system.
The District Magistrate clearly outlined the rules and procedures that must be followed during the verification process. She emphasised that the guidelines issued by the Election Commission must be strictly adhered to at every stage.
Focus on Transparency and Rule Compliance
Officials reiterated that transparency, neutrality, and adherence to established norms remain the administration’s top priorities. They also encouraged political parties to cooperate fully with election authorities to ensure a smooth and fair by-election.
Additionally, the meeting provided a platform for party representatives to raise queries and seek clarifications related to the election process. Officials responded to these questions and assured timely redressal of any concerns.
Administration Reaffirms Commitment to Free and Fair Polls
Concluding the meeting, the District Magistrate reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to conducting free, fair, and peaceful elections. She urged all stakeholders to follow the Model Code of Conduct and support the democratic process.
The district administration is expected to hold further review meetings as the by-election date approaches to ensure that all logistical and security arrangements remain on track.
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