Varanasi: Observers for the MLC Graduate and Teachers’ Constituency elections on Saturday directed officials to ensure free, fair and transparent polling in strict compliance with Election Commission guidelines.During a meeting at the divisional commissioner’s office, observers GS Priyadarshi and Pranjal Yadav reviewed preparations for the Legislative Council elections scheduled for Oct 23.They sought detailed updates from assistant returning officers on the deployment and training of polling parties, basic facilities at polling booths, dispatch of polling teams, availability of vehicles, and appointment of counting personnel and micro-observers. Arrangements for counting votes were also reviewed.The observers assessed the availability of polling materials and plans for the timely deposit of ballot boxes at designated collection centres after polling. They directed officials to complete all arrangements in accordance with Election Commission norms and maintain transparency at every stage of the electoral process.Divisional commissioner and returning officer S Rajalingam, DM Satyendra Kumar, chief development officer Prakhar Kumar and other officials attended the meeting. District magistrates and assistant returning officers from Jaunpur, Bhadohi, Chandauli, Sonbhadra, Ghazipur, Ballia and Mirzapur participated through video conferencing.
