The Chief Electoral Officer, UT Ladakh, Yetindra M. Maralkar, conducted a comprehensive workshop for enforcement agencies in preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, on March 7.

The workshop focused on Election Expenditure Monitoring (EEM) and aimed to ensure fair and transparent elections. The session began with a detailed presentation outlining the structure and functions of Election Expenditure Monitoring. Various aspects, such as the roles of different organisations, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Flying Squads, Static Surveillance Teams, ATM Vans, and the inspection of helicopters were thoroughly discussed.

The Workshop also covered protocols for the seizure and release of cash and other items, monitoring by the Income Tax Department, and the responsibilities of nodal officers from different agencies. Key areas such as monitoring election campaign expenses, helicopter costs, and travel expenditures were delved into. Attendees were briefed on the meticulous tracking of candidate and political party spending, along with procedures to deter the transport of contraband goods and suspicious funds through airports.

CEO Yetindra M. Maralkar highlighted the importance of coordination among enforcement agencies to maintain the integrity of the electoral process. He stressed the need for vigilance and urged officers to promptly report any illegal activities during the model code of conduct period.

The CEO reiterated the commitment to conduct elections with utmost fairness, transparency, and peace in Ladakh. He emphasised the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. He expressed confidence in the preparedness of the agencies and their dedication to facilitating smooth and transparent Lok Sabha elections in UT Ladakh.

The workshop concluded with a call to action for enforcement agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in upholding the integrity of the democratic process.

The workshop was attended by Deputy Commissioner/District Election Officer Leh; Additional Secretary of Elections, UT Ladakh; the Nodal Officer, CGST, UT Ladakh; Nodal Officer, Income Tax, Ladakh; Nodal Officer, Airport Authority, UT Ladakh; Nodal Officer Forest, UT Ladakh; Post Master General, Ladakh; Nodal Officer, Bureau of Civil Aviation, UT Ladakh; Deputy Inspector, General Ladakh Police (SPNO), UT Ladakh; Deputy Inspector General, ITBP (CAPF), UT Ladakh; State Nodal Officer Transport, UT Ladakh; District Election Officer, Leh along with ADCS/AROS/AEROS/Dy. DEOS/SDMs/ Tehsildars/Naib Tehsildars; Superintendent of Police, Leh along with ASPs/DSPs/Inspectors; Additional Commissioner, Sales Tax/Excise UT Ladakh; Convenor State Level Bankers Committee, UT Ladakh; Nodal Officer CISF, UT Ladakh; Additional Secretary of Home, UT Ladakh; Under Secretary of Civil Aviation UT Ladakh, while the Deputy Commissioner/DEO Kargil; the District Election Officer, Kargil along with ADCS/AROS/AEROS/Dy. DEOS/SDMs/ Tehsildars/Naib Tehsildars; Superintendent of Police, Kargil along with ASPs/DSPs/Inspectors joined the workshop virtually.