The State Election Commission (SEC) of Rajasthan has laid out the crucial timeline for the preparation of electoral rolls ahead of the much-anticipated Panchayati Raj elections in the state. In a significant announcement made on Wednesday, the commission declared that the draft electoral roll will be made public on January 29, paving the way for the democratic process at the grassroots level.
Key Dates for Voter List Publication
Following the release of the draft roll, the commission has scheduled February 25 as the date for the publication of the final electoral roll. This final list will form the foundation for the upcoming panchayat polls across Rajasthan. The SEC has clarified that the specific dates for the elections themselves will be announced only after this final voter list is officially released, ensuring a transparent and orderly electoral schedule.
Strict Guidelines for Enumerator Appointment
Alongside the calendar, the State Election Commission issued a detailed set of instructions for the appointment of enumerators, the officials responsible for preparing accurate electoral rolls. To maintain efficiency and clarity, the commission has directed that only one enumerator be appointed for each polling booth within a gram panchayat. This enumerator will be tasked with managing approximately 1,100 voters.
In a move to ensure preparedness for any contingencies, the guidelines mandate that officials maintain a reserve list of 10% additional eligible personnel who can step into the role of enumerator if needed.
Preference for Local Knowledge and Neutrality
The SEC's order strongly recommends that, wherever possible, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) should be given the responsibility of enumerators. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of local familiarity. The directive states that staff already posted in a particular gram panchayat should be appointed as enumerators for that same ward. This is to leverage their complete knowledge of ward boundaries and existing voters, which is critical for creating an error-free roll.
Upholding the integrity of the process, the commission has issued a strict mandate that any appointed enumerator must not be involved with any political party or political activities. To ensure swift implementation, the SEC has ordered that the entire work of appointing enumerators must be completed within three working days from the date of its order.
These announcements mark the formal commencement of the electoral machinery for the Panchayati Raj institutions in Rajasthan, setting the stage for local democratic exercises that are vital for rural governance and development.
