Second Phase Panchayat Elections Campaign Concludes in Telangana
The election campaign for the second phase of panchayat elections in Telangana has officially concluded, with polling scheduled across multiple districts in the state.
Elections are set to take place across all 193 mandals covering 4,331 gram panchayats in the second phase. The electoral process has witnessed significant political activity over the past few weeks as candidates and parties reached out to voters in rural areas.
Of the total gram panchayats going to polls, 415 gram panchayats have been declared unanimous, meaning candidates were elected unopposed in these areas. Excluding these unanimous panchayats, elections will be conducted in 3,916 gram panchayats where voters will exercise their democratic right.
A total of 57 lakh 22 thousand 665 voters are eligible to cast their votes in the second phase of panchayat elections. The voter demographic shows a diverse participation with 27 lakh 96 thousand 6 male voters and 29 lakh 26 thousand 506 female voters registered. Additionally, 153 other voters are also part of the electoral roll.
To ensure smooth conduct of the elections, authorities have made extensive arrangements. A total of 38 thousand 337 polling stations have been set up across the gram panchayats to facilitate voting. These polling stations have been strategically located to ensure easy access for voters in remote and rural areas.
As part of the election protocol and to maintain law and order during the polling process, strict restrictions have been imposed on the sale of alcohol. From 6 PM today until 6 PM tomorrow, liquor shops and belt shops will remain closed in all the second phase gram panchayats. This measure is being implemented to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure peaceful polling.
Election officials have completed all necessary preparations including the deployment of polling personnel, security arrangements, and distribution of electronic voting machines. The authorities have emphasized their commitment to conducting free and fair elections across all the gram panchayats.
The panchayat elections are considered crucial for grassroots democracy as they determine local governance at the village level. The elected representatives will be responsible for addressing local development issues, implementing welfare schemes, and managing civic amenities in their respective panchayats.
Polling will commence early morning and continue until evening, allowing ample time for voters to cast their ballots. The counting of votes is expected to take place shortly after the polling concludes, with results likely to be announced on the same day or the following day.
Security has been tightened across all polling stations with adequate police personnel deployed to ensure peaceful conduct of elections. Special attention is being given to sensitive polling booths where additional security measures have been implemented.
