Ishtiyaq Kar
Srinagar, Mar 09: The Election Commission has begun the process of deploying Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) companies in anticipation of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. This pre-poll deployment highlights the Election Commission’s dedication to ensuring law and order and fostering an environment conducive to free and fair elections in the region.
Preparations are underway in Jammu and Kashmir to implement adequate security measures and logistical arrangements as the Lok Sabha elections draw closer. The deployment of CAPF companies is vital for securing sensitive and hyper-sensitive constituencies, with trained personnel playing a crucial role in safeguarding election infrastructure, including polling stations, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and Strong Rooms.
The Election Commission, set to announce poll dates soon, has approved the deployment of 635 CAPF companies in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Each CAPF company, comprising approximately 100 personnel, will strategically secure sensitive areas in the region.
The responsibility for monitoring the deployment of paramilitary forces rests with the CEO, with the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Law and Order serving as the Special Police Nodal Officer. Security forces engaged in counterterrorism operations and other security duties will also participate in poll-related duties, highlighting the comprehensive nature of security arrangements during elections.
The Election Commission has communicated to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) regarding the importance of CAPF deployment for various poll-related tasks, emphasizing area domination, confidence-building measures, and ensuring the security of EVMs and counting centers. Around 3,400 CAPF companies will be deployed across all states and Union Territories to facilitate free, fair, and peaceful elections.
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar and the Election Commission are scheduled to visit Jammu and Kashmir on March 12 and 13. During this visit, discussions with top officials and stakeholders, including representatives from national and regional political parties, will focus on security assessments and election preparedness.
The Commission’s objective is to maximize turnout and transparency in the electoral process, with a consideration of conducting Assembly elections in the Union Territory. Jammu and Kashmir will receive the second-highest number of CAPF companies for the Parliamentary polls, underscoring the importance of ensuring security and smooth conduct of elections in the region.
The upcoming visit by the Election Commission reaffirms the commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections, reflecting the democratic principles of the nation.
Election Commission initiates Pre-Poll Deployment of CAPF for smooth Lok Sabha elections in JK UT
