Port Blair, March 14: As the nation prepares for the General Election 2024, Andaman & Nicobar Islands have fortified their security apparatus with comprehensive measures to ensure a smooth and fair electoral process.
In this connection, Shri. Devesh Chandra Srivastva, IPS, Director General of Police, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, conducted a comprehensive review of law-and-order arrangements and security preparedness on 12/03/2024, emphasizing the importance of readiness for the forthcoming Lok Sabha Election 2024.
Accordingly, the deployment of Jawans from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) has been meticulously planned, strategically positioning them across various police stations in all districts. Their mandate encompasses vital tasks such as flag marches, extensive area patrolling, and setting up checkpoints (Nakas) to pre-empt any attempts by anti-social elements to disrupt or influence the upcoming elections.
This collaborative endeavour between local Police and the CAPF underscores a shared commitment to uphold the sanctity and integrity of the electoral process. Paramount importance has been placed on safeguarding the safety and security of every citizen during this pivotal period.
District Superintendents of Police in all three districts have been entrusted with the responsibility of deploying CAPF teams alongside local police for intensive patrolling in sensitive areas. This proactive measure ensures a visible and responsive presence to address any potential incidents, particularly those related to the election. Recent patrols conducted in areas such as Bambooflat, Billiground, and Diglipur serve as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the A & N Police in ensuring a transparent and orderly General Election 2024.
The deployment of CAPF in tandem with local police signifies a steadfast commitment to upholding democratic principles and maintaining public safety. These proactive measures reflect the proactive approach of the A & N Police in fostering an environment conducive to democratic participation, while simultaneously preserving peace and order.
The District Police across all three districts are currently engaged in extensive raids aimed at curbing the illicit distribution of liquor, a tactic often used to influence the voting process. Simultaneously, efforts are underway to clamp down on the illegal sale of liquor by bootleggers throughout the entire Andaman & Nicobar Islands. In these efforts, Andaman & Nicobar Police has succeeded in recovering 151.725 Ltrs of IMFL, 17 Ltrs of illicit liquor, 20 Kgs of Handiya and 524 gms of Ganja during the period from 01/03/2024 to 13/03/2024. Besides, 141 Preventive Challans have been chalked out throughout the Islands.
In addition to these enforcement measures, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Police are prioritizing the capacity building of all police personnel involved in election security. Various training sessions focusing on the essential do’s and don’ts are being conducted for police officers deployed at polling stations, sector police officers, as well as police staff assigned to flying squads and static surveillance teams. Supervisory officers are also receiving specialized training to enhance their oversight capabilities during this critical period. The State Police Nodal Officer has also attended a training programme on General Election 2024 at New Delhi.
The general public is requested to promptly report any instances of anti-social activities that may undermine the integrity of the electoral process by contacting the police at 100, 112, or 1077. The confidentiality of informants will be rigorously protected.