Punjab Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sibin C, in a high-level review meeting on Thursday in view of the June 1 Lok Sabha polls, directed all the District Election Officers-cum-Deputy Commissioners, Commissioners of Police (CPs), and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) to ensure strict enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and take measures to curb the inflow of illicit liquor, cash, drugs, arms, and freebies   The CEO, during the review meeting conducted via video conferencing, emphasized the importance of adhering to all guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI). He instructed the officers to deploy flying squads, excise teams, and establish border check posts to prevent any illegal activities that could influence the election outcome.   Strict enforcement of the MCC is crucial to ensure free, fair, peaceful, and inducement-free elections, he said, while also stressing the need for ensuring the safety of all candidates and maintaining law and order during the election period.   Considering the anticipated heat wave on the polling day, the CEO instructed officers to ensure that adequate facilities are available at all polling stations across their respective districts. Micro-level initiatives are essential to achieve the target of Iss Vaar 70 Paar, he said, urging the officers to facilitate a smooth and voter-friendly election process.   Various facilities at polling booths were discussed, including the setup of Voter Assistance Booths, and specialized polling stations such as Pink, Green, Youth, and PWD (Persons with Disabilities) polling stations. The CEO mandated that at least one wheelchair be available at each polling station to assist PWD voters.   The meeting also included a comprehensive review of the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and other security arrangements. CEO sought updates on the printing of final electoral rolls, the distribution of voter information slips, and the monitoring mechanisms in place at the district level.   Attention was also given to the proper management of postal ballots, security measures at strong rooms, and the installation of CCTV and videography setups as per ECI guidelines. The CEO emphasized the importance of deploying micro-observers at each counting table and ensuring proper arrangements in counting halls.   Barricading inside and outside the counting centers and the paths for carrying EVMs to the counting centers were also reviewed. The CEO asked the officers to ensure that these areas are properly sanitized with adequate security measures and proper arrangements for verifying VVPAT paper slips as per the Commissions instructions. CEO also asked for proper internet arrangements at polling stations.   CEO Sibin C directed the officials to ensure that voter turnout data is entered in the ENCORE system promptly and that timely reports are sent to the CEOs office through the official website for real-time polling data collection.   Special Director General of Police, Law and Order, Arpit Shukla, also addressed the District Police officers, underscoring the need to provide a level playing field for all political parties and candidates. He emphasized the importance of maintaining elections free from intimidation and inducements, being accessible to all, and ensuring law and order throughout the state.

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