Harvinder overcomes all obstacles!
RC Sharma Chankay
Jammu, Oct 14: The recently concluded assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir have etched memorable moments in the region’s democratic journey. In a remarkable display of civic engagement, the polling percentage in Jammu province has shown a significant rise, particularly in Doda district, which has increased from 65.81% in the May 2024 Lok Sabha elections to an impressive 71.32%. This achievement can be largely credited to the exemplary efforts of District Election Officer Harvinder Singh, IAS, who also serves as the Deputy Commissioner of Doda.
Doda district, characterized by its challenging terrain, comprises 534 polling stations, of which 185 are classified as critical, representing 34.64% of the total. These critical polling booths pose accessibility challenges; however, the dedicated team led by Harvinder Singh-including the Additional Deputy Commissioner, the Assistant Commissioner Revenue, and the Dy District Election Officer, Om Parkash Bhagat, along with SSP Doda-worked tirelessly to facilitate voter access and ensure a smooth electoral process. Their concerted efforts have resulted in a remarkable increase of 5.51% in voter turnout over just four months.
Despite Doda being the largest district in the Jammu region and facing issues with road connectivity, the election team’s relentless determination made a significant impact. Doda town, named after the district itself, is located at an altitude of 5,000 feet, making travel to polling stations particularly challenging. The district encompasses 18 tehsils, Thathri, Bhaderwah, Doda, Mohalla, Bhagwa, Assar, Bhalla, Gundna, Marmat, Kahara, Gandoh (Bhalessa), Bhella, Bharat Bagla, Chiralla, Chilly Pingal, Phagsoo and Kastigarh., all characterized by hilly terrains. Nonetheless, the electoral team navigated these obstacles effectively, ensuring that democracy prevailed.
In comparison, the overall polling percentage for Jammu & Kashmir stood at 63.45%, showcasing Doda’s outstanding achievement in civic participation. The district is divided into 19 blocks, Marwah, Warwan, Kishtwar, Inderwal, Padder, Thathri, Banihal, Bhalessa, Bhaderwah, Doda (Ghat), Assar, Bhagwah, Ramban, Ramsoo, Marmat, Gundana, Chatroo, Drabshalla and Nagesni. The team’s diligent efforts extended across the entire district, ensuring voter mobilization in every corner.
Doda district consists of three assembly constituencies: Bhaderwah, with a polling percentage of 67.12%; Doda at 72.49%; and Doda West, which topped the charts with an impressive 75.98%. This highlights not only the commitment of the local population to the electoral process but also the effectiveness of the election administration in fostering voter participation.
Importantly, Doda is home to 453 villages, many of which are remote, along with 237 panchayats and three sub-divisions. Although road connectivity remains a challenge, the turnout at the polls reflects the determination of the people to strengthen democratic processes in the region.
This recent election cycle stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience and commitment of the Doda community to uphold their democratic rights, overcoming numerous obstacles in the pursuit of progress.
