Srinagar, September 30 (KNS): DIG North Kashmir Masood Ul Zaman on Monday said that security arrangements for the third phase of the assembly elections are fully in place.
Speaking to Kashmir News Service (KNS), he said the deployment of forces is designed to ensure smooth and incident-free polling across North Kashmir, including in remote areas like Uri and Karnah.
“We have made all necessary security arrangements according to the guidelines of the Election Commission of India,” he said.
Zaman said that the induction of polling staff and forces into the polling booths has begun, and the plan is being implemented smoothly.
He also said that area domination and other security measures like induction plans, transportation arrangements, and ground audits have all been finalized. “We have ensured that everything is ready for an incident-free and smooth polling day tomorrow,” he said.
In terms of overall security, he said that they have deployed 394 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and 48 companies of the J&K Police.
He further said that around 4,000 additional police personnel have been deployed for area domination and other essential tasks to ensure complete safety.
To strengthen the security measures, the Army has been assisting in securing polling booths near the Line of Control (LoC) and other inaccessible areas, he said.
“The army is dominating the upper reaches and sensitive areas, and the coordination between CAPF, the Army, and the police has been excellent,” he further said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Zaman said the police have taken every precaution to prevent any violence during the elections.
“Our land order plans and counter-insurgency quick reaction teams (CIQRTs) are in place, with every officer aware of their responsibilities. We are fully prepared for any eventuality.”
When asked about potential disruptions, Zaman said that they have already identified and warned persons with a history of creating disturbances. “We have bound down about 5,000 people with records, and although they haven’t been detained, they are under watch and have been warned to behave,” he said.
He said that anyone who attempts to disrupt the peace during the election will face strict consequences. “The law will take its course if anyone tries to cause trouble, and we will not hesitate to act,” he said.
Zaman urged these persons to mend their ways and behave like responsible citizens.
Regarding any specific threats, Zaman assured that all contingencies have been accounted for, and the officers have been briefed to handle any situation. “We are in constant touch with the public, and all grey areas have been covered with necessary security measures.”
The entire government wants to ensure that these elections are peaceful so that every citizen can vote freely and without coercion,” he added.(KNS)