Reviewing the law and order situation ahead of polling, the Election Commission on Wednesday instructed the government and police to take preemptive action to prevent communal tensions during the elections.
The EC, in a meeting chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar and Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, met top officials of the defence forces, central paramilitary forces, state police, and state governments.
Among the key issues discussed during the meeting was “identification and monitoring of flashpoints in border areas that may have ramifications on the election process; preemptive measures to address communal tensions based on past experiences, and the imperative of securing porous borders against illegal activities,” an EC statement said. The EC also underscored the importance of preventing contraband, including drugs and arms, from entering the country.
“Directions were given for adequate security measures to safeguard political functionaries and candidates based on threat perception, particularly in states like Chhattisgarh and J&K. The recent violence and turmoil in Manipur and ramifications in conduct of peaceful elections were also addressed,” the EC said.
The Election Commission instructed the agencies in-charge of the international borders to maintain a strict vigil.
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