In anticipation of the upcoming 2024 general elections, the Election Commission announced on Monday the finalization of a budget amounting to 243.4 million rupees for the crucial task of printing ballot papers.
Insiders familiar with the matter revealed that out of the total budget, Rs120.24 million will be earmarked for National Assembly ballot papers, while the four provincial assemblies will witness an expenditure of Rs121.2 million.
This detailed allocation highlights the Commission’s unwavering commitment to ensuring transparency at every level of government.
The printing process will employ a three-pronged approach to enhance security features, involving collaboration between three major printing presses. The Security Printing Corporation, contributing 25% of the total, is recognized for its expertise in secure document production.
The Postal Foundation, responsible for 40% of the ballot papers, is a trustworthy entity with a nationwide presence. The Printing Corporation, handling 35% of the overall production, adds a critical layer to safeguard the electoral process.
In a bid to fortify the printing process and maintain its integrity, the electoral watchdog is considering deploying military personnel both inside and outside the three designated printing corporations.
Simultaneously, as part of a comprehensive security plan, the delivery of printed ballot papers from the presses to District Returning Officers (DRs) and Returning Officers (ROs) will be executed under stringent security measures. The presence of troops is expected to provide an additional layer of protection during this crucial transit phase.
As the nation prepares for the 2024 general elections, the Election Commission’s meticulous planning and strategic resource allocation underscore its dedication to conducting elections that are free, fair, and secure, thereby instilling confidence in the democratic process.
Police Bust ‘Lady Gang’ Involved In Theft On Metro Bus Service
Meanwhile, Rawalpindi police announced a successful operation on Monday, claiming to have dismantled a ‘lady gang’ engaged in theft on the metro bus service.
The Special Police (SP) Rawal stated that the female snatchers’ gang, responsible for stealing from commuters on the Rawalpindi metro bus service, was apprehended, and they have confessed to their criminal activities during the investigation.
