A rehearsal for Micro Observers was conducted today at the PWD Rest House Auditorium in Sector-1 under the directions of Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer Dr. Yash Garg. Deputy District Election Officer Vishwanath, along with SDM and Returning Officer Kalka Rajesh Poonia, were present.
Election Kanungo Kuldeep Singh explained that Micro Observers are deployed at sensitive polling stations to assist general observers. ‘They will carefully monitor the voting process and submit a detailed report to the general observers. A total of 91 Micro Observers have been trained, and they will be deployed at locations with more than three polling stations.’ Said Kuldeep Singh.
‘Micro Observers work as a team with polling parties and are required to submit reports based on an 18-point checklist. They reach the polling stations a day before the election and monitor the entire process, from mock polling to the conclusion of voting. They are responsible for reporting significant incidents during the election.’ Said the spokesperson
The spokesperson further said that Micro Observers are not assigned to a single polling station but are responsible for multiple stations in a location. ‘They also inspect essential facilities such as electricity, water, toilets, ramps, lighting, and furniture at the polling stations. Additionally, they ensure that voting compartments maintain confidentiality.’ Informed the spokesperson.SDM Rajesh Poonia emphasized that Micro Observers play a critical role as the eyes and ears of the general observer, overseeing the voting process. ‘If the presiding officer fails to follow Election Commission guidelines, Micro Observers can guide them.’ Said Poonia.
The spokesperson said that webcasting will be conducted at each polling station for monitoring, and Micro Observers must prepare clear reports on their assigned polling stations.
Deputy District Election Officer Vishwanath highlighted the importance of mock polling, which must be conducted 90 minutes before voting starts. ‘Micro Observers must be present, with a minimum of 50 votes cast during the mock poll. They are also responsible for ensuring any malfunction in EVM or VVPAT units is addressed promptly.’ Said Vishwanath.