Bypoll in 5 seats in Assam: Nomination process underway, 9.10 lakh voters to exercise their franchise

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 18, 2024

Over 9.10 lakh voters are set to cast their ballots in the by-elections for five assembly seats—Dholai, Sidli, Bongaigaon, Bihali, and Samaguri—on November 13.

Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Anurag Goel announced the timeline for the by-elections, stating that the nomination process began on October 13, with the final date for filing nominations set for October 25. Candidates who wish to withdraw their nominations can do so by October 30.

The scrutiny of nominations will take place on October 28 to ensure all candidates meet the necessary criteria. Following the elections on November 13, the counting of votes is scheduled for November 18, which will determine the outcome of these crucial assembly by-elections.

Goel SAID the by-elections will be conducted using the pre-delimitation constituency map. A total of 1,078 polling booths will be set up for the elections: Dholai will have 208 booths, Sidli will have 273, Samaguri 197, Bongaigaon 246, and Bihali 154.

The total number of eligible voters stands at 9,10,665. This includes 1,97,642 voters in Dholai (SC), 2,17,236 voters in Sidli (ST), 1,82,354 in Bongaigaon, 1,32,579 in Bihali, and 1,80,854 in Samaguri.

Goel also said the electorate also includes 4,197 voters with disabilities and 3,788 voters aged over 85.

The detailed arrangements aim to ensure smooth polling, with an emphasis on accommodating special categories of voters to enhance their participation in the democratic process.

Goel further said the Model Code of Conduct has come into effect in the five districts where by-elections will be held. To ensure compliance with the code and monitor election-related activities, nine flying squads and nine static surveillance teams have been deployed in each constituency to oversee election expenditure and maintain order.

The CEO also assured that sufficient Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are available, with a 200% backup in place to address any technical issues that may arise during the voting process.

The CEO added that an updated voters list will be delivered directly to voters’ doorsteps, ensuring that all eligible voters are well-informed and prepared for the elections.