The electoral landscape for the civic body elections scheduled for June 13 in Hoshiarpur and Gurdaspur districts is now fully clear. Following the completion of the nomination withdrawal process, a total of 272 candidates remain in the electoral fray across four civic bodies. This has added an interesting dimension to the political contest within these local bodies.
According to the State Election Commission, a total of 398 candidates were found eligible to contest the election after the scrutiny of nomination papers. However, 125 candidates withdrew their names on the final day for withdrawal. Consequently, 272 candidates will now try their luck in the electoral contest. Voting will take place from 8 AM to 4 PM.
As per the schedule released by the Election Commission, voting will be held on June 13 from 8 AM to 4 PM. Vote counting will commence immediately after the conclusion of polling. Officials state that the counting process will be completed on the same day, and the results for all civic bodies will be declared by late night. This time, voting will be conducted entirely using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The Commission believes this will make the voting and counting processes faster, more transparent, and smoother. Candidates and political parties have also intensified their election campaigns; candidates are actively engaging with voters across various wards and areas. Election Commission completes preparations.
State Election Commissioner Raj Kamal Chaudhary stated that all necessary preparations have been completed to ensure the election is conducted in a peaceful, fair, and transparent manner. Adequate staff have been deployed at polling stations. Additionally, police forces have been extensively deployed to strengthen security arrangements.
He mentioned that special duties have been assigned to administrative and police officials to prevent any irregularities or disorder during the election process. Responsibilities for various areas have been entrusted to senior administrative and police officers.
The Election Commission emphasizes that providing a free and fair environment for voters is a top priority. With this objective in mind, all necessary arrangements are being ensured at the polling stations. Now, all eyes are fixed on the voting scheduled for June 13 and the subsequent results, which will determine the future political direction of these bodies.
