PANAJI
With the implementation of the model code of conduct, expenditure observers have been deployed across North Goa to ensure there is no exchange of cash for votes with Central expenditure observers set to join the effort soon.
Addressing a press conference to outline the process for the upcoming polls, North Collector Sneha Gitte stated that the expenditure of every candidate and political party will be closely monitored.
“Expenditure monitoring is standard protocol. We will closely monitor the expenditure of every candidate and political party, starting from the day of filing nominations. The Election Commission of India will deploy its expenditure observers, while our teams are already in the field after obtaining necessary training,” Gitte, also appointed as the Returning Officer for the district, explained.
Simultaneously, video surveillance teams are also active in the field to prevent illegal transactions or unauthorized distribution of funds.
She further informed that the officials also held an interstate meeting with the neighbouring district officials of Belagavi (Karnataka) and Sindhudurg (Maharashtra) to take collaborative measures to enhance interstate border security by involving agencies like police, excise, commercial tax and income tax to share insights, strategies and intelligence. “This is necessary to take stern action against any possibility of violation of the model code of conduct by using inducements such as liquor, freebies, money and muscle power,” she added.
To ensure law and order as well as peaceful, free and fair elections, ECI has deployed Central Armed Police Forces personnel along with the State police forces during the parliamentary polls.
Superintendent of Police (North Goa) Akshat Kaushal, also present at the briefing, revealed that all the border check posts are under strict 24/7 vigil.
The RO has also set up a control room to monitor election-related activities and ensure coordination among various agencies.
The district has 57,977 voters with 2,80,260 male voters and 29,7714 female voters, 3 transgender and 4,955 PwDs. The district has 863 polling stations spread across 20 Assembly Constituencies.
Gitte informed that each polling booth will be equipped with assured minimum facilities such as sheds, drinking water, toilets, ramps, wheelchairs, and a help desk.
