Chümoukedima, November 14 (MExN): The Electoral Roll (e-roll) Observer for Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Peren Districts, Y Kiheto Sema, held a meeting with the Administrative and Election Officers, as well as representatives from various political parties under the 4 Ghaspani-I and 5 Ghaspani-II Assembly Constituencies (ACs), on November 14.
The meeting, held at the DC Conference Hall in Chümoukedima, was in connection with the ongoing special summary revision of the E-Roll, with January 1, 2025, as the qualifying date, as reported by the State DIPR.
During the meeting, Sema, who is also Commissioner & Secretary for Law & Justice, Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, emphasised that transparent electoral rolls are essential for ensuring clean elections in Nagaland.
The period for cleansing the E-Roll during the current summary revision, which includes a claims and objections period, began on October 28 and will continue until November 28.
He also advised the district administration to publish the names and contact details of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and the list of polling stations in both print and social media for wide publicity. This would enable BLOs to guide and assist voters and address any grievances they may have.
Sema further raised the issue of maintaining a clean electoral roll, stressing that the process and timeline involved should be discussed through various platforms, including the Church, Sunday schools, and elementary schools. This would ensure that no eligible voter is left out and that voters are sensitised to the importance of a clean electoral roll, thereby raising maximum awareness.
He also highlighted the need to reach out to weaker and marginalised sections of society, including Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), and emphasised the significance of Public Grievances Redressal, both online and offline.
Sema cautioned that the functioning of the BLOs should be properly monitored to ensure the successful completion of the Summary Revision.
He also urged political parties to actively participate in the summary revision exercise, appoint Booth Level Agents (BLAs), raise any pertinent issues that need redressal, and work in close coordination with the district administration.
Sema called on political parties to mobilise their cadres and make full use of the second phase of special camps, which is scheduled for November 22 and 23.
In response to feedback from political parties that people in urban areas are not aware of the details of the summary revision, the Observer advised that extra efforts should be made to create awareness in towns as well.
He also called on all government officials, political parties, and stakeholders to give due importance to the summary revision exercise, undertake sensitisation activities through various means, and work together to ensure the creation of a healthy electoral roll.
