With Gujarat’s local body elections approaching in less than three weeks, the state’s top police officials have ordered a heightened crackdown on criminals and preventive actions across districts to ensure a fair polling process. The directive came during a high-level meeting led by Director General of Police Dr. K.L.N. Rao, focusing on law and order preparations before the elections scheduled for April 26. The elections will encompass various local bodies, including municipal corporations, municipalities, district panchayats, and taluka panchayats, with voting expected to be conducted using electronic machines.
Rao instructed all police units to take preventive measures and increase cases under the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Act (PASA) during the meeting. Emphasizing the importance of curbing potential threats, he called for strict action against absconding accused and history-sheeters to ensure free and fair voting in the state. The Model Code of Conduct has been in effect since April 1, with ADGP (ATS) Amit Vishwakarma appointed as the nodal officer to oversee security and enforcement measures for the elections.
Security arrangements are being bolstered significantly, with the deployment of around 9,000 trained LRD recruits and Forest Department personnel for election duty. Senior officers have been tasked with intensifying combing operations in sensitive districts and monitoring illegal arms movement closely. The police are also focusing on maintaining coordination with election officials, enhancing VIP security, and upgrading communication systems to ensure a smooth electoral process.
