GUWAHATI: The Election Commission of India held a significant meeting with all states/union territories (UTs) on April 3 to evaluate the law and order situation, prevent illicit activities, and enhance vigilance across borders during the ongoing General Elections to Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies 2024. The aim was to ensure free, fair, peaceful, and inducement-free elections by fostering coordination and cooperation among officials of neighbouring states/UTs and central agencies guarding the borders.
Chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, along with ECs Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, the meeting brought together top officials from States/UTs and central agencies. CEC Kumar reiterated the Commission's commitment to conducting fair elections and urged stakeholders to work cohesively to maintain the integrity of the electoral process. He emphasised the importance of ensuring voters' right to vote without fear or intimidation.
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Key discussions during the meeting included enhancing coordination among neighbouring states/UTs, deploying Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) adequately, identifying and monitoring potential flashpoints in border areas, and curbing illegal activities such as smuggling of contraband items across international borders.
The Commission also reviewed logistical support for the movement of CAPF personnel in bordering poll-going states/UTs, addressing communal tensions, and securing borders against illegal activities. Specific directions were given to seal inter-state borders during polling days, intensify patrolling, and establish joint check posts for strict surveillance.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the need for expenditure monitoring to prevent the inflow of illicit items such as liquor, cash, and drugs, along with directives to central agencies to ensure strict vigilance along international borders.
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In a bid to enhance security measures, the Commission directed for adequate security cover to political functionaries and candidates based on threat perception, particularly in sensitive areas like Chhattisgarh and Jammu & Kashmir. Furthermore, the recent violence and turmoil in Manipur were discussed, urging swift action to assist internally displaced persons and ensure their participation in the electoral process.
The meeting concluded with general directions aimed at maintaining law and order, plugging illicit activities, and strengthening monitoring at various checkpoints. Chief Secretaries, Director Generals of Police, and other key officials from States/UTs, along with heads of central agencies, attended the review meeting.