PRESS RELEASE Chief Electoral Officer Ladakh initiates Comprehensive Annual Summary Revision of Photo Electoral Rolls

Leh, 30th August 2024: The Joint Chief Electoral Officer, Ladakh, Sh. Sonam Chosjor, JKAS, chaired a crucial meeting today to discuss and strategize the Annual Summary Revision of Photo Electoral Rolls, with reference to 1st January 2025 as the qualifying date. This initiative is an integral part of the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) ongoing efforts to ensure an accurate, inclusive, and updated Electoral Roll, which serves as the backbone of a vibrant democracy.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Enrolment of Newly Eligible Voters: A primary objective of this year’s revision is to maximize the enrolment of newly eligible voters in the 18-19 age group. The meeting emphasized targeted outreach programs to ensure that every eligible young citizen is registered. This includes collaboration with educational institutions, social media campaigns, and on-ground activities such as door-to-door visits by Booth Level Officers (BLOs).

2. Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs): The meeting stressed the importance of inclusivity, with a particular focus on ensuring the registration of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in the Electoral Roll. BLOs were instructed to conduct meticulous door-to-door surveys to identify and facilitate the registration of PwDs, ensuring that no eligible voter is left behind.

3. Purification and Verification of Electoral Rolls: To maintain the integrity of the Electoral Roll, a rigorous purification process has been initiated. This includes removing duplicate entries, verifying the accuracy of existing entries, and ensuring that the roll reflects the most current and accurate information. BLOs have been tasked with conducting thorough field verifications, including house-to-house surveys, to identify and rectify any discrepancies.

4. Special Enrolment Camps and Awareness Campaigns: To boost voter registration, the Election Department will organize special enrolment camps across the Union Territory, particularly in remote and underserved areas. These camps will be supplemented by vibrant awareness campaigns utilizing music, street plays, and social media platforms to engage the public. These initiatives aim to create a sense of urgency and importance around voter registration, particularly among marginalized and hard-to-reach communities.

5. Technology-Driven Enrolment and Verification: The meeting highlighted the importance of leveraging technology to facilitate voter registration and roll maintenance. The popularization of the Voter Helpline Mobile App, along with the voter registration portals www.voterportaleci.gov.in and www.nvsp.in, was emphasized. These platforms enable citizens to easily check their enrolment status, submit applications, and track the progress of their requests online.

6. Involvement of Political Parties: The active participation of political parties in the revision process was underscored as essential. Political parties will be encouraged to appoint Booth Level Agents (BLAs) who will collaborate closely with BLOs to ensure that all eligible voters are enrolled. Regular consultations with political parties will be held to keep them informed and involved at every stage of the revision process.

7. Comprehensive SVEEP Plan: To ensure the success of the Annual Summary Revision, the State and District Nodal Officers have been tasked with developing a comprehensive Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) Plan. This plan will include a wide array of activities aimed at raising public awareness, fostering a deeper understanding of the electoral process, and encouraging maximum participation in the revision process.

The Joint Chief Electoral Officer reiterated the commitment of the Election Commission of India to conducting a smooth, transparent, and inclusive Annual Summary Revision. All stakeholders, including political parties, government officials, civil society organizations, and the general public, are urged to actively participate in this democratic exercise to ensure that every eligible citizen in Ladakh is registered and able to exercise their right to vote. The meeting was attended by Shri Phonsok Ladakhi State Icon SVEEP, Shri. Tsewang Dorjey, President PAGIR, PwD Icon, Deputy District Election Officer Leh and Kargil, State Nodal Officer and District Nodal Officers SVEEP

For further information and assistance, citizens are encouraged to visit the official websites or contact their local BLOs.