GANDERBAL, MARCH 18:District Election Officer (DEO) Ganderbal, Shyambir convened a significant meeting today with the heads of all banks operating within the district Ganderbal.
The purpose of the meeting was to reinforce collaborative efforts in ensuring the integrity and transparency of the electoral process in the upcoming elections.
In the wake of the forthcoming elections, the DEO emphasized the paramount importance of vigilance against any attempts to influence the democratic process through illicit financial means. Several key directives were issued during the meeting to bolster scrutiny and reporting mechanisms, aimed at curbing suspicious financial activities during the election period.
All the Banks Heads were directed to establish dedicated counters for election purpose to facilitate the prompt service to candidates in opening Bank Accounts. Further, all the banks should allow withdrawals and deposits from these accounts on priority during the election period.
All banks operating within the district are mandated to submit daily reports on any suspicious withdrawals of cash from the bank accounts of individual persons throughout the election process. This measure aims to promptly identify and investigate any potential irregularities in financial transactions.
Banks are instructed to exercise heightened vigilance in monitoring any unusual or suspicious cash withdrawals or deposits exceeding Rs. 1 lakh during the electoral period. Additionally, any unprecedented transfer of funds via RTGS from one bank account to multiple accounts within the district or constituency is to be reported promptly for further scrutiny.
Banks were directed to scrutinize any deposits or withdrawals exceeding Rs. 1 lakh from the bank accounts of candidates, their spouses, or dependents to ensure transparency in financial disclosures.
Furthermore, banks were directed that any withdrawals or deposits exceeding Rs. 1 lakh in the accounts of political parties during the election process are to be closely monitored and reported to prevent the undue influence of financial resources on the electoral process and uphold the principles of fair competition.
Speaking at the meeting, the District Election Officer underscored the collective responsibility of banks and election authorities in safeguarding the sanctity of the electoral process. He emphasized the need for stringent adherence to electoral guidelines and urged banks to exercise utmost diligence in reporting any suspicious financial activities promptly.
The collaborative efforts between the District Election Office and banking institutions reflect a steadfast commitment to upholding the democratic values of transparency, integrity, and accountability in the electoral process.
The meeting was attended by the Additional District Development Commissioner Ganderbal (Nodal officer Model Code of Conduct), Mushtaq Ahmad Simnani , Deputy District Election Officer Ganderbal, Lead District Manager Ganderbal besides all the Heads of Banks operating in district Ganderbal.
