Enhanced Visibility Policing
In preparation for the Urban Local Bodies (ULB) elections across Telangana, scheduled for February 11, a robust security framework has been meticulously
put in place. The state's Director General of Police, Shivadhar Reddy, announced on Tuesday that the police department has significantly amplified its visible policing efforts statewide. This intensified presence aims to foster an environment conducive to peaceful and equitable elections. Special teams have been strategically positioned at polling stations identified as highly sensitive, with continuous surveillance in effect to preempt any disturbances. The Model Code of Conduct (MCC), enforced since January 27 across all police commissionerates and districts with the exception of Hyderabad, serves as a foundational guideline for these operations, ensuring a disciplined electoral campaign and polling day.
Preventive Enforcement Measures
As part of a proactive strategy to maintain law and order during the Urban Local Bodies polls, authorities have implemented a series of stringent preventive measures. A total of 1,183 licensed firearms have been surrendered across the state, significantly reducing the potential for violence. Furthermore, to ensure good conduct and prevent potential disruptions, 4,318 individuals have been bound over. The execution or recall of 398 non-bailable warrants underscores the commitment to enforcing legal compliance among all citizens. These actions are critical in establishing a secure atmosphere, allowing the democratic process to unfold without undue intimidation or interference, and reinforcing the seriousness of electoral regulations.
Border and Inter-District Security
To effectively curb illegal movements and maintain stringent border security, the police have established a comprehensive network of check posts. Twenty inter-state check posts are now operational along Telangana's borders with neighboring states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. Complementing these, an additional 55 inter-district check posts have been set up within the state. This layered approach to security is designed to intercept the illicit transport of cash, liquor, and other contraband that could potentially influence the election outcome. The activation of a wide-ranging surveillance network, comprising 181 Flying Squad Teams and 167 Static Surveillance Teams, further bolsters these efforts, ensuring vigilant monitoring across all critical transit points.
Polling Station Preparedness
The security arrangements extend directly to the polling stations, where meticulous planning ensures the safety and integrity of the voting process. Security has been established at 8,203 polling stations throughout the state. Of these, a significant emphasis has been placed on 1,302 hyper-sensitive booths and 1,926 sensitive booths, which will receive heightened police attention. To bolster on-ground security and law enforcement, approximately 3,000 personnel from diverse departments, including the Telangana State Police (TGSP), Forest, Excise, and CID, have been deployed. This multi-agency deployment is crucial for maintaining order, responding to incidents promptly, and assuring voters that their right to cast their ballot is protected.
Enforcement and Seizures
Enforcement actions against violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) have been rigorously pursued, demonstrating a firm stance against electoral malpractices. Officials reported the registration of 988 cases pertaining to code violations, leading to the imposition of fines exceeding Rs 3.09 crore. During various inspections conducted to ensure compliance, law enforcement agencies successfully seized substantial quantities of illicit items. This includes cash amounting to Rs 1.29 crore, liquor valued at over Rs 1.21 crore, and drugs worth Rs 15.7 lakh. These seizures highlight the persistent efforts to prevent the misuse of funds, substances, and other illegal materials that could compromise the fairness of the elections.
