In connection with the ongoing Special Summary Revision of the Photo Electoral Roll, with January 1, 2025, as the qualifying date, a meeting was held with the Electoral Roll Observer for Dimapur, Chumoukedima, and Peren districts, Y. Kikheto Sema, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary for Law & Justice, Fisheries & AR on November 13, 2024 at the Deputy Commissioner’s hall, Dimapur.
DC & DEO Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang welcomed the attendees, emphasizing Sema’s extensive experience in election management across India, which would greatly benefit Dimapur’s revision process. Dr. Chang also informed attendees about special campaign dates for the revision process, set for November 8, 9, 22, and 23 (Fridays and Saturdays), with BLOs stationed at designated polling centers to assist citizens in enrolling and clarifying any questions regarding the revision.
In his address, Sema thanked the DC, AEROs and political party representatives for their cooperation and attendance at the critical meeting, which he described as essential for ensuring an inclusive and accurate electoral roll. Highlighting India’s status as the world’s largest democracy, Sema emphasized the significance of having an up-to-date and comprehensive voter list, especially in a district as diverse as Dimapur.
Sema encouraged political parties to appoint Booth Level Agents (BLAs) who could assist Booth Level Officers (BLOs) by identifying and enrolling new voters who have reached the age of 18. “Only two weeks remain for enrolment,” he noted, urging all stakeholders to maximize efforts to ensure eligible citizens are registered. He added that attention should be given to enrolling members of weaker sections of society to foster greater inclusion and representation.
Sema praised Dimapur’s effective coordination, mentioning that no complaints had been received in the Public Grievances Cell, a sign of smooth operations. He reiterated the importance of the SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) initiative, calling for a broad awareness campaign through social media, newspapers, churches, schools, and colleges to encourage citizens to register. “Let us create a model district here in Dimapur,” he said, “something that will set a positive example for other districts and states across the country."
He also highlighted the importance of the Special Enrollment Campaign, encouraging political parties to actively help in identifying potential new members and ensuring clean voter rolls. He reminded them to address any claims or objections before the deadline and urged them to reach out to him directly at his official contact for any issues related to the electoral roll. Sema concluded with a vision for elections that are free, fair, and fully representative of the community.
After the meeting, Sema conducted site visits to several polling stations in Dimapur, including Supply Colony W/ Police, Supply Colony Lapaloma, Hall N/W, Industrial Village Razhuphe-IE/W, Industrial Village Razhuphe-II N/W, Purana Bazar (Riverside) S/W, and Padam Pukhuri-V. In this regard, the respective Booth Level Officers (BLOs) were directed to be present at their polling stations during his visit.
The meeting was attended by ADC Zakabo V. Rotokha; Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) Litsenthung Kikon (EAC, Dimapur II) and Vejoyo Swuro (SDO, Dimapur III); and representatives from registered political parties.
(I.Tiakumla.Ao, IA, Dimapur)
