Staff Reporter
Port Blair, Apr 24: The Election Commission for the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands in exercise of powers under rule 5 (3) of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Municipal) (Preparation of Electoral Rolls and Conduct of Elections) Rules, 1995, held a public draw of lots on Friday in the auditorium of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Auditorium, Pahargaon to allocate the seats reserved for women for the forthcoming General Elections to PBMC. The Election Commissioner for the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Ms. Bhupinder Prasad, Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, Mr VK Bidhuri, senior officials of the District Administration, representatives of political parties and members from the public were present on the occasion.
As per the results of the draw, of the total 24 Municipal constituencies, Ward nos. 9, 13, 6, 18, 22, 16, 11 and 4 have been designated as Wards reserved for women for the ensuing Municipal elections.
The Election Commissioner clarified that though only 8 wards are reserved for women, ladies are free to contest elections even from the General Wards. She further informed that revision of draft electoral roll will be done from May 1 2015 onwards, for a month. The Election Commission will try its level best to complete elections by September 23, 2015. Polling will be carried through Electronic Voting Machines, she said adding that for any query and grievances, the Director Panchayat & Municipal Elections can be contacted.
A good number of people including Ward Councilors and representatives of various political parties witnessed the draw of lots with their fingers crossed.
