Bhatkal: Assistant Commissioner (AC) Dr. Naina announced on Wednesday that the Bhatkal-Honnavar constituency boasts 2,25,128 voters, comprising 1,14,053 males and 1,11,075 females.

During a press conference at the Taluka Adalit Saudha, Dr. Naina disclosed that 248 polling booths will be operational within the constituency, with CCTV installations planned to ensure the integrity of these sensitive locations.

First-Time Voters
The constituency is set to welcome 4,626 first-time voters, divided almost evenly with 2,333 males and 2,293 females ready to exercise their voting rights.

Registration Open Until April 9
Voters yet to enroll can submit Form Number 6 by April 9 to be included in the voters' list, enabling them to participate in the forthcoming election, Dr. Naina explained.

Voting From Home for Elders
Bhatkal-Honnavar has 4,965 voters aged above 85 and persons with disabilities, for whom the convenience of voting from home will be offered. "Ahead of the nomination process, we'll dispatch Form 12D to their residences, offering them this choice," she stated. This initiative, previously seen in assembly elections, marks its debut in Lok Sabha elections nationwide.

Election Schedule
The voting for Uttara Kannada Lok Sabha constituency is scheduled for May 7, with the formal announcement to be made on April 12. The deadline for filing nominations is April 19, and the last day for withdrawal is April 22.

Increased Security Measures
Following the enforcement of the Lok Sabha election Model Code of Conduct, three inter-district border check-posts have been established in the constituency at Gersoppa in Honnavar taluk, and Sarpankatte and Kuntavani in Bhatkal taluk, with enhanced checks. Police, vigilance, and video surveillance teams are vigilantly monitoring district-wide, backed by nodal officers from various departments conducting vehicle inspections.

Violations of the election code, including inappropriate distribution of cash, household items, and liquor, can be reported through the C-Vigil app, where the public is encouraged to upload evidence.

Permission via Suvidha App
Dr. Naina emphasized that political parties must use the Suvidha app for obtaining permissions for meetings, rallies, and other election-centric events. “Requests for public gatherings, ceremonies, mobile vehicles, loudspeakers, helicopters, and helipads should be made through Suvidha software or at the offices of the DC or AC,” she added.

Surveillance and Enforcement
A comprehensive team of 25 officers has been designated as zonal officers to oversee the strict adherence to the model code of conduct within the Bhatkal constituency. Citizens can report any violations by calling 1950.

In total, six flying squads, nine static surveillance teams, three video surveillance teams, one video viewing team, a C-Vigil team, and expenditure teams have been formed to monitor compliance.

Regulation on Cash Transportation
Citizens are advised against carrying more than Rs 50,000 in cash without relevant documentation during the election period. Failure to provide necessary proof will result in the seizure of the funds, Dr. Naina cautioned.

Control Rooms for Assistance
For complaints or assistance, control rooms have been established in the Bhatkal Assembly constituency. Contact numbers are as follows:

Bhatkal Assistant Commissioner Office: (08385 223722)
Bhatkal Tahsildar Office: (08385 226422)
Honnavar Tahsildar Office: (08387 220262)