Security has been tightened in the city ahead of the elections to the municipal committee which are slated to be held on June 13.
Barricades have been established in strategic areas of the city. Night policing, too, has been increased with scores of cops deployed at traffic intersections and inner parts of the town. SSP Aditya said, “The role of the police during elections is to create a secure and peaceful environment, where citizens can exercise their democratic right to vote without interference or fear. The police play a critical role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring the legitimacy of the entire electoral process.”
Three Quick Response Teams (QRT) have been deployed. An officer said, “During an emergency, irrespective of security, safety, road accident, riot, fire or theft, our QRTs teams are ready to rush to the scene of the incident within minimum limited time and able to take necessary action. During elections, an emergency and unexpected situations can arise anytime — and that’s where QRT plays a vital role. A well-trained QRT ensures immediate action, quick decision-making and flawless execution, minimising risks and protecting lives and assets.”
Anti-sabotage teams are also conducting checks at important places, including markets, the railway station and the bus stand. Checking has been intensified in and around the railway station. Outsiders have been asked to leave the city on the day of the voting. Eight Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs), too, have been deployed. They are designed to provide immediate assistance and support in times of emergencies. They are equipped with special features and capabilities to deal with any type of situation.
The SSP added, “Maintaining law and order in and around polling stations is our prime responsibility. Preventing voter suppression tactics, such as voter intimidation, coercion or any attempts which discourage people from voting and ensure voting without fear of intimidation or violence, too, comes under our jurisdiction. After all, police machinery plays a crucial role in conducting elections in a transparent, free and fair environment and ensuring a democratic electoral process without fear or favour.”
Security has also been beefed up in Dinanagar, which is also going to the polls on June 13. Dinanagar falls under the jurisdiction of the Gurdaspur police district.
