The Belagavi District Central Cooperative (BDCC) Bank is gearing up for crucial elections on Sunday, October 19th, to fill seven director positions. Nine other director posts have already been secured unopposed.
These elections have sparked significant interest, leading to the reconfiguration of existing political alliances and creating divisions among prominent leaders. The contest has transcended traditional party lines, focusing instead on individual candidates and their influence.
Intriguingly, leaders from the Congress party are openly campaigning against their own party members in certain constituencies, while BJP leaders find themselves in direct competition with colleagues. In some areas, unexpected alliances have formed, with BJP and Congress leaders joining forces to create joint panels.
Securing a seat on the board of the district’s most significant rural lender has become a matter of considerable prestige. This fiercely contested battle pits panels led by figures such as Anna Saheb Jolle and the Jarkiholi brothers against a formidable group including Ramesh Katti and Laxman Savadi.
The election Returning Officer formally announced the polling schedule on Friday. Voting will take place at the B.K. Model High School in Belagavi, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. A total of 676 eligible voters, comprising members and delegates from primary agricultural cooperative societies across the district, are expected to cast their ballots.
To ensure a smooth process, seven polling booths will be established at the venue. Vote counting will commence immediately after polling closes, with results announced later the same day.
Returning Officer Shravan Nayak confirmed that 14 candidates are competing for the seven available constituencies. Comprehensive security measures have been implemented by the city police and bank staff, including a review of the situation by City Police Commissioner Borase Bhushan Gulabrao. CCTV cameras are also being installed at the polling center for enhanced surveillance.
Voters are required to present their identity cards to participate. Mobile phones and other personal items, including pens and pencils, are strictly prohibited inside the polling station. Upon election, successful candidates may be accompanied by up to five supporters when receiving their certificates.
Access to the polling station is restricted to election staff, authorized agents, and accredited presspersons. Each candidate is permitted to have only one agent present for both the voting and counting processes.
Detailed arrangements have been made to accommodate everyone involved, including candidates, election officials, and media representatives, with essential amenities like drinking water and restroom facilities provided.
A total of 33 personnel have been assigned to election duties and have received specialized training. Additionally, a prohibitory order has been enforced around the polling station to maintain order.
Responding to a query, the Returning Officer noted that out of 698 Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACs) in these seven constituencies, some have temporarily lost their voting rights due to various issues. However, if any of these societies manage to restore their rights through court intervention, the Returning Officer will adhere to judicial directives.