Mysore/Mysuru: In a preparatory meeting for the forthcoming Lok Sabha general elections – 2024, held at the K.R. Nagar Taluk Panchayat Hall yesterday, Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of Mysuru and Mandya, Dr. K.V. Rajendra and Dr. Kumar respectively, reiterated the critical need for conducting the elections with utmost fairness, transparency and integrity.

Emphasising the importance of conducting the upcoming elections without any irregularities, the DCs highlighted the crucial role of officials entrusted with the task. They stressed that ensuring the success of the elections relies heavily on the execution of responsibilities with utmost accountability.

During the meeting, Dr. Rajendra and Dr. Kumar directed all Sector Officers to conduct thorough inspections of all polling stations, including micro and ultra-micro-level polling booths, to identify and rectify any deficiencies promptly.

Furthermore, they suggested officials coordinate with the Booth Level Officers (BLO) and personally visit sensitive and hyper-sensitive booths to ensure a smooth and efficient electoral process. Officials were asked to fill up vulnerable mapping (VM) forms VM 1, VM 2 and VM 3 in coordination with the BLOs and report to the higher officers.

With the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct in the interior locations, the officials were instructed to establish check-posts in accordance with rules. They emphasised providing essential facilities to personnel stationed at these check-posts and conducting regular vehicle checks to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

The DCs highlighted the importance of Sector Officers taking on the responsibility of coordinating among various departments, BLOs and other electoral machinery officials. They underscored the need for efficient discharge of duties and responsibilities, including those delegated by the Election Commission.

Additionally, officials were instructed to remove public posters and banners within the specified time frame in all areas and prepare a detailed list of the status of workers, supervisors and officials examining the publicity materials meticulously at the ground level. Additionally, they were asked to be well-informed about the notifications, guidelines and other information published by the Election Commission from time to time.

Present at the meeting were Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) Supriya Banagar and Tahsildars of K.R. Nagar and Saligrama were present.