STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: The number of polling stations across the State has increased to 28,205. This has been registered following the reorganization (rationalization) of the polling stations in Assam by the State Election Department under the direction of ECI (Election Commission of India). Sources informed that a total of 62 permanent polling stations have been increased this year. Earlier, the number of such polling stations was 28, 143.
The highest number of 18 new polling stations will be set up in Dibrugarh (Election) district followed by nine in Kamrup (M); seven in Jorhat; six each in Sibsagar and Sadiya; three in Silchar; and two each in Tinsukia and Jonai among others.
According to ECI guidelines, a polling station should cater to 1,500 voters or electors. The "rationalization" process had to be undertaken as the State Election Department found that a few of the polling stations across several Election districts had more electors.
Sources added that keeping in view the COVID-19 protocols, additional auxiliary (temporary) polling stations might be set up during the forthcoming State Assembly elections slated in April 2021.
Meanwhile, the State Election Department has deferred the date to publish the draft photo electoral roll. It was scheduled to be brought out on November 16. However, as the State government declared 'State holiday' today, the draft photo electoral roll will be published on November 18.
After disposal of claims and objections, the final photo electoral roll will be brought out in February 2021; and based on this final roll, the 2021 Assembly elections will be held.