To keep a close check on violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and maintain law and order during the Legislative Assembly elections, the election authorities have asked the law enforcement agencies and police to strengthen the surveillance mechanism in the border district of Rajouri.
After a thorough deliberation at the meeting, the district magistrates, sub-district police officers and FST chiefs were directed to intensify patrolling in their respective areas and hold regular meetings with local leaders to identify potential troublemakers.
Any such person must confirm their identity at least 72 hours before polling day and share the information with the Returning Officer and this Office.
The meeting was chaired by Rajouri’s Deputy Commissioner (MCC/District Liaison Officer for Law and Order) Rajeev Kumar Khajuria and issued these instructions as per the instructions of the DEO of Rajouri. The participants included the district magistrate, district police officer and officers of the Mobile Police Squad (FST) from constituencies identified as vulnerable due to past incidents of rigging, booth occupation and violence.
Apart from this, district magistrates have been directed to take immediate preventive measures, including execution of bonds against individuals who have been involved in rigging elections, occupation of polling booths or violence in the past. The officials have also been tasked with creating awareness about the Election Commission of India’s strict stand on double voting. Those involved in the practice of proxy voting will face severe consequences.
District magistrates and police personnel were directed to regularly patrol their respective areas to ensure that no violation of law and order occurs. “Any potential threat must be addressed in advance and reports submitted in a timely manner.”
The officials were also urged to familiarize themselves with the People’s Representation in India (BNSS) and the People’s Representation Act to deal with complaints effectively and ensure peaceful elections.
Special focus has been placed on sub-divisional magistrates of border areas, including Nowshera, Larokha, Bhawani, Chowkihandan and Benpatan. They have been asked to maintain strict vigil on the movement of vehicles along the Line of Control (LoC) through regular surprise checks.
District magistrates have been asked to identify those polling stations which pass through nearby houses or shops and may be prone to violence and report them to the Returning Officer for necessary action.