Rajouri, Apr 29: The District Panchayat Election Officer (Deputy Commissioner) Rajouri has placed an Assistant Electoral Registration Officer (AERO)/Block Development Officer (BDO) under suspension for unsatisfactory performance in the ongoing revision of the Panchayat Electoral Roll 2026.
According to an official order as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, Sh. Mohtshim Hanief, serving as AERO/BDO Plangher, was entrusted with the responsibility of supervising and ensuring timely and accurate revision of electoral rolls. However, his block recorded poor progress despite repeated instructions and warnings issued by the authorities.
The order states that the officer was earlier informed about the slow pace of work vide official communications dated April 10 and April 17, 2026, wherein all EROs/AEROs were directed to meet the benchmark of 4 percent addition in the electoral roll as fixed by the Election Commission.
It further mentions that during special camps held on April 25 and 26, as well as review meetings conducted through virtual mode, officers were strictly directed to achieve the targets within the stipulated timeframe. Despite this, the concerned officer failed to discharge duties with due diligence.
The lapses highlighted include incomplete and delayed revision of electoral rolls, failure to adhere to prescribed guidelines and timelines, and lack of proper supervision over field-level staff, which adversely impacted the integrity of the electoral roll revision process.
“In view of negligence and dereliction of duty, Sh. Mohtshim Hanief is hereby placed under suspension with immediate effect, pending further inquiry,” the order reads.
During the suspension period, the officer shall remain attached to the office of Assistant Commissioner Panchayat Rajouri and will not leave the headquarters without prior permission. (KNC)
