CCP elections: cops leave nothing to chance

PANJIM, MARCH 8
Goa police has prepared an extensive arrangement to provide watertight security before, during and post municipal polls scheduled for March 13.
Over 300 armed police personnel will be on duty to ensure free and fair elections keeping a vigil at polling stations to avert any anti-social activities even as separate police teams will be on continuous duty on two and four wheelers.
A report released on Tuesday listed several measures that have been laid down one of which includes thorough police cover for maintenance of law and during door-to-door contacts, party meetings, corner meetings, evening meetings and processions.
“Adequate police staff will be deployed at all places with special attention to sensitive areas. Police team will be on patrolling duty and they will submit an hourly report of the area to their superiors through the control room”, said a police source.
Wireless sets and other communication devices are also made mandatory to be carried by duty personnel.
The Police Department has instructed political groups and supporters of contesting candidates to avoid canvassing and soliciting people for votes within 200 meters from the polling station.
“If they are found indulging in unlawful activities, we will register a cognizable offense against them. Static pickets, checking, nakabandis and patrolling will be carried out”, said the officer.
Loudspeakers and megaphones are also banned. More than 13,000 Panjim voters will be going to polls on March 13 from 8 am to 5 pm.
Electronic Voting Machines from 68 polling stations will be collected and stored at the Government Pharmacy College, Panjim, where counting of votes will begin from 8 pm. The results are expected on the same day.