Jammu and Kashmir is set to conduct a two-day special intensive voter enrolment drive on October 10 and 11, aiming to ensure that no eligible citizen is left out of the electoral rolls. This initiative marks the commencement of a regular weekend voter facilitation program across the Union Territory. The drive will operate from 9 am to 5 pm on both days at all polling stations, offering a convenient window for eligible individuals to register as voters or to update and correct their existing electoral details.
The announcement was made by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sanjeev Verma during a high-level review meeting with district election officers (DEOs), electoral registration officers (EROs), and assistant electoral registration officers (AEROs). The meeting was convened to finalize arrangements for the upcoming drive. As per information available with Tahir Rihat, Verma stressed the importance of extensive outreach and effective facilitation to guarantee that all eligible citizens are included in the electoral rolls. A spokesperson for the election department stated that these weekend drives will be organized regularly, providing a consistent opportunity for citizens to visit their nearest polling station for enrolment and updates.
The CEO further directed the district election machinery to undertake comprehensive institutional and public outreach campaigns to raise awareness about this new initiative. He also emphasized the need for regular ground-level updates to be disseminated through official social media platforms. These updates are intended to include details about polling stations, assembly constituencies, and districts, thereby enabling citizens to easily access information regarding the facilities available in their respective areas. This strategic use of social media aims to enhance transparency and accessibility in the electoral process.
During the special two-day drive, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will be stationed at polling stations to assist citizens. Their role will include facilitating the submission of Forms 6, 7, and 8, which are crucial for voter enrolment, deletion, correction, or updation of electoral particulars. Citizens will have the option to submit these forms physically or digitally through the Voter Helpline App, as confirmed by the election department spokesperson. This dual approach caters to diverse accessibility needs and preferences among the electorate.
In a significant move to ensure inclusivity, the CEO instructed BLOs to conduct door-to-door outreach. This effort is specifically designed to identify and assist eligible citizens who might have been overlooked in the current electoral rolls. Particular attention will be paid to youth, first-time voters, women, persons with disabilities (PwDs), and other eligible individuals who may require additional support in the enrolment process. This proactive measure underscores the commitment to a comprehensive and equitable electoral register.
Verma urged all eligible citizens to actively participate in this initiative and to visit their nearest polling station on October 10 or 11 to avail the available facilitation services. He underscored the critical role of active citizen participation in maintaining complete, accurate, and inclusive electoral rolls. The election department has reiterated its dedication to making the voter enrolment process more accessible at the grassroots level, ensuring that every eligible citizen has a convenient avenue to engage in the electoral process. This drive is a key component of the ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic participation in Jammu and Kashmir.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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