District Election Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner, Patiala, Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal, informed that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has approved the proposals for rationalisation of polling stations in Patiala district. With this approval, the total number of polling stations in the district has increased from 1,786 to 1,861, with 75 new polling stations being added.
Dr. Aggarwal said that the rationalisation has been carried out in accordance with the guidelines of the Election Commission of India, which stipulate that wherever the number of electors at a polling station exceeds 1,200, an additional polling station should be created to facilitate smooth and convenient voting for electors.
He said that proposals for the creation of additional polling stations were sent to the ECI after a detailed assessment. The Assembly Constituency-wise increase is as follows, 109-Nabha: 226 to 235 (9 new polling stations), 110-Patiala Rural: 258 to 266 (8 new polling stations), 111-Rajpura: 201 to 207 (6 new polling stations), 113-Ghanaur: 210 to 221 (11 new polling stations), 114-Sanour: 272 to 294 (22 new polling stations), 115-Patiala: 182 to 184 (2 new polling stations), 116-Samana: 232 to 236 (4 new polling stations) and 117-Shutrana: 205 to 218 (13 new polling stations).
Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal said that following the approval of the Election Commission of India, the district now has a total of 1,861 polling stations, ensuring better accessibility and convenience for voters.
The District Election Officer added that all recognised political parties are also being informed in writing regarding the approved rationalisation of polling stations.
He further informed that the Election Commission has directed the district election machinery to complete all further formalities in accordance with the procedure prescribed in Chapter II of the Handbook for Returning Officers, 2023.
As per the instructions of the Election Commission (AMF), arrangements for minimum necessary facilities like electricity, water, ramps, toilets, furniture etc. have been ensured at a total of 1861 polling stations established.