Polling is currently ongoing for the Umreth Assembly by-election in Gujarat’s Anand district. Voters have been casting their ballots since 7 a.m. at 306 polling stations, with tight administrative and security measures in place. The constituency has a total of 2,45,623 registered voters, including urban and rural areas.
The polling stations are divided into 68 in urban areas and 238 in rural locations, covering 46 villages of Umreth taluka and surrounding regions. The voting hours are from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. as per the Election Commission of India’s schedule, with vote counting scheduled for May 4.
Six candidates are vying for the seat, with special arrangements made for various voter groups. This includes provisions for first-time voters aged 18-19, elderly voters over 85 years, and voters with disabilities. The polling process is supported by a significant workforce, including polling personnel, micro observers, and district-level nodal officers.
Security has been heightened in the constituency with the deployment of police personnel and Central Reserve Police Force units to maintain law and order. Special facilities like wheelchairs, volunteer assistance, and dedicated vehicles have been arranged for senior citizens and persons with disabilities to access polling stations. Voter assistance booths are also available at all centers.
Voters can use approved identity documents such as Aadhaar card, driving license, passport, and voter ID cards. Non-resident Indian electors must present their original passports for identification. Medical arrangements have been made, including agreements with hospitals for emergency treatment and distribution of oral rehydration solution packets at polling stations.
The polling process is closely monitored through webcasting at all stations to ensure transparency. The by-election was necessitated by the passing of sitting MLA Govind Parmar, leading to the Election Commission announcing the by-election for the Umreth Assembly constituency.
