Ludhiana West By-Election: Punjab's Preparations

**Punjab Prepares for Critical Ludhiana West By-Election: CEO Sibin C Reviews Arrangements** Ludhiana, June 13: In anticipation of the upcoming by-election for the 64-Ludhiana West Assembly Constituency, Punjab's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sibin C conducted a comprehensive video conference on Monday to assess the state of preparedness. The meeting drew significant participation from key district officials including Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Election Officer Himanshu Jain, Commissioner of Police Swapan Sharma, and Returning Officer Rupinder Pal Singh. CEO Sibin C underscored the importance of heightened vigilance as the by-election approaches its final stages. He issued directives for stringent surveillance during the last critical phases of the election process, particularly focusing on the 72, 48, and 24 hours leading up to the polling day, extending through the conclusion of the electoral activities. A key directive was the removal of all outsiders, including political figures, from the constituency once the election campaign concludes at 6 PM on June 17. Furthermore, the CEO called for reinforced round-the-clock CCTV monitoring to deter and identify illegal activities such as the distribution or smuggling of liquor, cash, drugs, or other inducements. In the interest of maintaining electoral integrity, Sibin C mandated swift action in response to any allegations of voter influence through monetary or material incentives. Amid the scorching summer temperatures, the CEO emphasized the need for polling stations to be equipped with necessary amenities for voter comfort, including drinking water, 'chhabil' (sweet beverage), waiting areas, toilets, and shelters. Additionally, he advocated for adherence to COVID-19 guidelines outlined by the Health Department. The readiness for live webcasting at 100% of the polling stations was reviewed to ensure real-time monitoring, alongside assessments of arrangements at polling booths, strong rooms, counting halls, and medical facilities. Immediate and appropriate actions are to be taken against any breaches of the Model Code of Conduct, in compliance with Election Commission guidelines. The District Election Officer and Police Commissioner provided reassurances of complete preparedness for the by-election, confirming smooth procedural execution aligned with Election Commission directives. They pledged the prompt implementation of all meeting instructions. The gathering also included the participation of Additional CEO Harish Nayar, Joint CEO Sakatar Singh Bal, Election Officer Anju Bala, and other senior officials from the CEO's office. ### Key Voter and Polling Booth Statistics CEO Sibin C outlined that the Ludhiana West constituency has a total voter registration of 1,74,437, comprising 89,602 male voters, 84,825 female voters, and 10 third-gender voters. To facilitate efficient polling, 194 booths have been established across 66 locations. These include special setups like 10 model polling booths, an all-women-managed booth, an eco-friendly "green" booth, and a booth operated by PWD staff. In response to security needs, 13 booths have been classified as critical, warranting the deployment of paramilitary forces. In a move to assist senior citizens and voters with disabilities or medical conditions, a home voting initiative was conducted, accommodating 239 voters. Polls are slated for June 19, from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the vote counting set to commence at 8:00 AM on June 23 at Khalsa College for Women, designated as the counting center. To ensure security, checkpoints have been established at 54 strategic locations within the constituency, all closely monitored by security forces.