In view of the upcoming elections, Punjab Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sibin C on Monday convened a crucial meeting with the representatives from major political parties in the State to address essential aspects of the electoral process and ensure adherence to the code of conduct. The CEO urged the political parties and the candidates to refrain from hate speech, religious, or caste-based vote solicitation, personal attacks on their opponents.   CEO Sibin C began by providing comprehensive insights into the election dynamics, revealing key statistics including the total number of voters, polling stations, and the availability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).   With a staggering total of 2,12,71,246 voters, the CEO emphasized the need for inclusivity and accessibility in the voting process. Notably, recent provisions allowing PwD voters and individuals aged 85 and above to opt for voting at home were highlighted, demonstrating a commitment to facilitating every eligible citizens participation in the democratic process.   In terms of infrastructure, CEO Sibin C assured attendees that the state boasts 150 per cent availability of EVMs, ensuring a surplus to accommodate all voters. Furthermore, he emphasized that all polling stations would be equipped with essential facilities such as ramps, water supply, lighting arrangements, and toilets, ensuring a seamless voting experience for all.   Delving into the intricacies of the electoral process, CEO Sibin C elucidated candidate qualifications, nomination procedures, and symbol allotment regulations. He underscored the importance of upholding the Model Code of Conduct, stressing the prohibition of hate speech, religious or caste-based vote solicitation, personal attacks on opponents, or criticism based on unverified reports.   Highlighting the significance of transparency and efficiency, CEO Sibin C introduced the Suvidha portal, a platform designed to simplify the nomination process and obtain various permissions for political parties. Through the Suvidha portal, candidates can file nominations and affidavits online, schedule meetings with returning officers, and streamline administrative procedures, ensuring a smoother electoral process.   The meeting, attended by Additional CEOs Harish Nayyar and Abhijeet Kaplish, Joint CEO Sakkatar Singh Bal, and other officials of the CEO office, concluded with a firm commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections in Punjab.

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