Representatives of political parties in Manipur held a discussion with election officials, including the chief electoral officer of the state, regarding the ensuring assembly elections in the state.
The meeting, convened by chief electoral officer (CEO) Rajesh Agrawal, was held at the CEO’s office in Lamphelpat on October 30 where representatives of recognised national and state political parties functioning in the state took part.
Manipur chief electoral officer briefed the representatives of the political parties about the programme of special summary revision with respect to January 1, 2022, as the qualifying date wherein the draft electoral rolls will be published on November 1.
CEO Agrawal requested the representatives of the political parties to make timely claims and objections from November 1 till November 30 and further informed that the list of claims and objections will be made available on the CEO’s website.
Stating that special camps will be held on November 13, 14, 27 and 28, where booth level officers will be present at their respective polling stations, he also appealed to all the representatives of political parties to appoint booth level agents and participate in the special camps to ensure enrolment of eligible electors.
The CEO also stated that 65 additional polling stations have been approved by the Election Commission of India and permission for shifting of 86 polling stations has been granted.
Auxiliary polling stations, if required, will also be considered, the Manipur CEO said.
He also suggested the advantage of converging multiple polling stations into a suitable location or campus, especially in urban areas.
He appealed to all the stakeholders and political parties to cooperate in maintaining normalcy.
The CEO also sought support from the political parties to ensure conduct of smooth, free and fair elections in the state.
Representatives of political parties expressed views concerning the provision for availing voting facility by the eligible voters staying outside the state.
The schedule of Special Summary Revision, 2022 had already been issued by CEO, Manipur – the Publication of Integrated Draft Electoral Roll is scheduled on November 1; period of filing claims and objections is from November 1 to 30; special campaign at all polling station locations are to be held on November 13, 14, 27 and 28. The disposal of claims and objections will be done by December 20. The final electoral roll will be published on January 5, 2022.
Assembly elections are due to be held in Manipur in March 2022, to elect 60 members of the state legislative assembly.
