UP Bar Council Elections Commence in Kanpur with Moderate Turnout
The two-day Uttar Pradesh Bar Council elections kicked off in Kanpur Nagar on Tuesday, marking a significant event in the state's legal fraternity. On the first day of polling, 3,948 advocates out of 11,908 registered voters exercised their franchise, setting the stage for the final phase scheduled for Wednesday.
Election Overview and Candidate Landscape
A total of 2,49,918 advocates are registered members of the UP Bar Council, who will elect 25 members to represent their interests. The electoral battle is intense, with 333 candidates in the fray, including notable figures such as Yogendra Kumar and Ankaj Mishra, both former members of the Bar Council. This high number of contenders reflects the competitive nature of the elections and the diverse aspirations within the legal community.
Polling Process and Security Arrangements
Voting took place at 154 booths set up on the ground floor of the civil court premises, operating between 10 am and 5 pm. To ensure a smooth and transparent process, advocates' Certificates of Practice (CoP) and registration documents were meticulously verified at three designated counters. District Judge Anmol Pal and Police Commissioner Raghubir Lal personally reviewed the polling process, underscoring the importance of adherence to electoral norms.
Security was a top priority, with special security force squads deployed on and around the court complex. Additionally, traffic diversions were enforced between the police commissioner's office and Chetna crossing, which unfortunately led to traffic congestion near Huddard School, affecting local commuters.
Campaign Activities and Voter Engagement
Outside the court premises, candidates and their supporters were actively engaged in last-minute campaigning. Tents were set up by various candidates, where supporters raised slogans and distributed pamphlets throughout the day in a bid to garner support from voters. This vibrant atmosphere highlighted the enthusiasm and competitive spirit surrounding the elections, as advocates made their voices heard in this democratic exercise.
The second and final phase of voting on Wednesday will determine the outcome, with the legal community eagerly awaiting the results that will shape the future of the UP Bar Council.
