Chandigarh, May 25, 2024: A high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Election Commissioner of India, Shri Hridesh Kumar Singh, was held today to discuss the preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha General Elections in Chandigarh, scheduled for June 1, 2024. The meeting focused on ensuring a smooth and efficient electoral process for all voters. During the meeting, the Deputy Election Commissioner emphasized the importance of the proper distribution of photo voter slips to ensure voters have all necessary information about their polling booths. The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Chandigarh assured that nearly 100% distribution will be achieved within the next one to two days, covering the entire city. Considering the rising temperatures and potential heatwaves, the Election Commission stressed the need for adequate arrangements at polling stations. This includes providing sheds, drinking water, fans, coolers, and other amenities to ensure a comfortable voting experience. Special provisions will be made for senior citizens and persons with disabilities to cast their votes without delay. Additionally, the CEO highlighted the launch of the Chandigarh CVA app, which allows voters to check queue lengths at polling stations every 30 minutes and estimate their voting time, facilitating better planning for their visit. Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Vinay Pratap Singh announced the establishment of 55 model polling booths, including five theme-based booths reflecting local Chandigarh themes, five women-managed booths, five booths managed by persons with disabilities, and five youth-centric booths to attract voters. The Election Commission reviewed the arrangements for the stay of paramilitary forces in Chandigarh. State Police Nodal Officer, Shri R.K. Singh, IG, UT Chandigarh, confirmed that all necessary provisions have been made. Flag marches are being conducted at critical locations to deter any unlawful activities, and strict enforcement of interstate border checkpoints is in place to prevent the illegal movement of liquor and cash. Furthermore, strict enforcement of the last 72 hours before polling, as per the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), will be maintained to prevent any violations of the Model Code of Conduct and Election Commission of India guidelines. The Chief Electoral Officer emphasized ongoing initiatives to increase voter awareness and motivate citizens of all ages to vote on June 1, 2024. The Election Commission of India and the Chief Electoral Officer of Chandigarh are committed to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections. All preparations, including those for the counting of votes on June 4, 2024, are in place to ensure a successful electoral process in Chandigarh. The meeting was attended  by General observer Sh.S.S Gill, R.K. Singh IPS, Inspector General of Police, Kanwardeep Kaur, IPS Senior Superintendent of Police, all Assistant Returning Officers and all Nodal Officers emphasizing the commitment to ensuring a smooth and efficient election process.