HT Correspondent
DHUBRI, May 6: Dhubri district is poised for a major democratic exercise as it readies itself for the Panchayat elections scheduled for, May 7.
District Commissioner Dibakar Nath, while addressing the press, outlined the elaborate preparations and urged voters to cast their votes early to ensure a smooth and peaceful polling process.
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“The voting will begin at 7:30 am on May 7. I urge all eligible voters to exercise their democratic rights as early as possible,” DC Nath said. “Adequate security arrangements have been made, and confidence-building measures are in place to ensure peaceful polling and maximum participation.”
Polling parties from Dhubri Sadar, Bilasipara CDC, and Golakganj CDC have already departed for their respective polling stations. Teams deployed to the remote char areas, known for their challenging terrain, had left a day earlier and have successfully reached their destinations.
To assist in these regions, the administration has activated a dedicated boat cell to facilitate smooth transportation of polling officials and materials.
Highlighting inclusivity, Nath informed that 29 polling stations will be run entirely by women. “We have taken all necessary steps for an inclusive and secure election process,” he added.
In total, 1,465 polling stations have been set up across Dhubri to cater to over 10.5 lakh registered voters. Of these, 7,39,400 voters are from Dhubri Sadar, 1,77,324 from CDC Golakganj, and 1,35,728 from CDC Bilasipara. The electorate comprises 5,42,630 male, 5,09,807 female, and 15 transgender voters, underscoring the district’s commitment to inclusive governance.
Security remains a top priority, especially in the Indo-Bangladesh border areas where nearly 200 polling stations are located. “We had a coordination meeting with the BSF, and they will provide additional security to ensure smooth conduct in these sensitive zones,” the DC noted.
As part of the Election Commission’s guidelines, presiding officers have been instructed to initiate verification of the next voter only after the previous voter has entered the polling compartment, to ensure privacy and prevent overcrowding and speedy voting process.
The Panchayat elections will cover all three levels of rural governance: 20 Zilla Parishad constituencies, 10 Anchalik Panchayat segments, and 128 Gaon Panchayats. Dhubri Sadar accounts for the majority with 12 Zilla Parishad, 6 Anchalik, and 88 Gaon Panchayat constituencies.
Political engagement has been intense, with 69 candidates contesting Zilla Parishad seats, 417 candidates in the Anchalik Panchayat race, and a staggering 3,999 candidates vying for positions in the Gaon Panchayats.
With administrative machinery in full swing and security measures robustly enforced, Dhubri is set for a significant electoral event.
