Jamshedpur: In anticipation of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 2024, the process of physically segregating Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) constituency-wise has commenced, aiming to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process. District Election Officer  Ananya Mittal conducted an inspection at the EVM warehouse located in Kitadih, overseeing the ongoing task. Representatives from various political parties were also present during the inspection.

From April 24 to April 28, all EVMs will be meticulously separated and stored in the respective strong rooms allocated to the six assembly constituencies within the district.  Mittal emphasized the importance of adhering to Election Commission guidelines, directing the entire process to be recorded on video for accountability and transparency.

The subsequent step in the electoral process involves the second randomization scheduled for May 10, during which booth-wise allocation of EVMs will be carried out in the presence of political party representatives.

Marking key dates in the electoral calendar, the notification for Lok Sabha elections in the district is set to be issued on April 29. Candidates will have until May 09 to withdraw their nominations, with polling day scheduled for May 25. Counting of votes is slated for June 04, with Cooperative College, Jamshedpur designated as the central hub for EVMs and counting activities across all six assembly constituencies.

The inspection witnessed the presence of several high-ranking officials including Deputy Development Commissioner  Manish Kumar, ADM (SOR)  Mahendra Kumar, Director NEP  Ajay Sao, District Public Relations Officer  Panchanan Oraon, SDO Ghatsila  Sachchidanand Mahato, SDO Dhalbhum  Parul Singh, and other Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), underscoring the collective commitment to conducting free and fair elections.