Haryana Gears Up for Elections with Over 45,000 EVMs at 20,031 Stations

In a significant announcement for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and the by-election of Karnal Assembly constituency, Haryana's Chief Electoral Officer, Anurag Agarwal, detailed the extensive preparations underway. A total of 45,576 Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will be deployed across the state to facilitate the voting process. Agarwal shared that 24,039 control units and 26,040 Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines are set to be used in 20,031 polling stations.

The electoral setup includes 19,812 permanent and 219 auxiliary polling stations. A noteworthy aspect of this election is the inclusion of 99 polling stations that will be entirely staffed by women and 71 stations manned by Persons with Disability (PwD) employees. The distribution of polling stations sees 5,470 in urban locales and 14,342 in rural areas, reflecting the state's demographic spread.

Voting is scheduled for May 25, marking it as part of the sixth phase of general elections. The polls will open at 7 am and close at 6 pm. To enhance voter experience, 176 model polling stations have been established. Amidst severe heatwave conditions, authorities have ensured that all polling stations are equipped with basic facilities and necessary arrangements to ensure voter comfort and safety.

Agarwal also highlighted the logistical aspects of the election process, noting that 91 counting centres have been established across 44 locations in Haryana. Voter registration figures reveal a total electorate of 2,00,76,768 in the state, comprising 1,06,52,345 men, 94,23,956 women, and 467 transgender voters. Special attention is being given to inclusivity with provisions for voters above 85 years of age and PwD voters to vote from home. This initiative has seen the approval of 9,024 Form 12D applications, with approximately 92 per cent of these voters casting their vote through postal ballots.

Further ensuring voter accessibility, Agarwal has directed officials to provide an adequate number of wheelchairs at polling stations. The state's commitment to a smooth electoral process is also evident in its arrangements for electricity, drinking water, and protection from heat at polling stations. Medical and paramedical staff will be available on voting day to address any emergencies.

In a bid to increase voter turnout, a unique initiative has been launched where invitation letters are being sent to voters akin to a wedding card. Approximately 50 lakh such invitation cards have been printed and are being distributed by Booth Level Officers along with a voter slip.

Agarwal emphasized the technological advancements being employed to ensure a fair election. Two-level webcasting monitoring at polling stations will be implemented, including state control rooms and district control rooms. Additionally, the Election Commission of India will monitor the proceedings through webcasting to prevent any disruptions by anti-social elements.

The CEO's review meeting with District Election Officers via video conferencing underscored the comprehensive preparations for the Lok Sabha elections. These measures reflect Haryana's commitment to conducting free, fair, and accessible elections for all its citizens.