Dibrugarh Leads the Way in Gender-Inclusive Electoral Practices
As the 2026 Assembly elections approach, Dibrugarh district in Assam is making significant strides in promoting gender-inclusive electoral practices. The district has established 300 polling stations managed entirely by women, the highest number in the state. This initiative not only empowers women but also sets a benchmark for inclusive and participatory elections.
Empowering Women in Electoral Management
The establishment of 300 all-women polling stations out of a total of 1,322 across six Assembly constituencies in Dibrugarh is a major step towards promoting women's participation and leadership in the electoral process. These stations will be fully staffed by female personnel, including presiding officers and polling officials, reflecting the growing confidence and active involvement of women in election management.
The initiative highlights the administrative efforts to ensure greater gender representation and serves as a model for encouraging women's empowerment in democratic institutions. The enthusiasm and performance of women personnel during training sessions played a key role in scaling up the number of such booths this year.
Ensuring Accessible and Inclusive Polling
Dibrugarh's district administration has undertaken extensive preparations to ensure smooth and inclusive polling. Special arrangements have been made for remote and riverine areas, where polling teams will travel by boat to facilitate voting access for residents in isolated regions. With over 10 lakh voters set to exercise their franchise on April 9, the emphasis on women-led polling stations underscores a broader commitment to inclusive, participatory, and accessible elections.
District Commissioner Bikram Kairi has ensured elaborate arrangements for the smooth distribution of election materials. With 51 counters set up at Dibrugarh Polytechnic, the process is expected to be completed efficiently by the afternoon. All 1,322 polling stations will be equipped with webcasting facilities to ensure transparency and real-time monitoring, adding a layer of security and trust in the electoral process.
Security and Surveillance Measures
Security is a paramount concern as the election process reaches its final stage. Dibrugarh Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Gaurav Abhijit Dilip has ensured adequate deployment of police constables, Home Guards, and CAPF personnel at all polling stations. Polling personnel are collecting election materials from the designated distribution centre before proceeding to their respective stations. Strict surveillance is being maintained to ensure peaceful polling.
The initiatives in Dibrugarh are not just significant for the district but also set a precedent for the entire North East region. As the region continues to grapple with issues of accessibility and inclusivity, Dibrugarh's model of women-led polling stations and extensive security measures can serve as a blueprint for other districts aiming to enhance their electoral processes.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Assembly elections in Dibrugarh are poised to be a landmark event in Assam's electoral history. The district's commitment to gender-inclusive practices and robust security measures sets a high standard for future elections. As the region continues to evolve, such initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive and participatory democratic process.