Law & order management reviewed in Rajouri

Rajouri, Oct 7: On the directions of the District Election Officer (DEO) Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, a comprehensive review meeting regarding the management of law and order for the upcoming counting day, scheduled for October 8, was convened today in Rajouri.

The meeting was chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Rajouri, Rajiv Khajuria, and attended by all Executive Magistrates, their police counterparts, and Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Rajouri, Bikram Kumar.

The primary focus of the meeting was to ensure a robust plan for maintaining peace and order during the counting of votes for the General Election to the Legislative Assembly in 2024.

ADC Rajiv Khajuria, addressing the gathering, emphasized the critical role of Executive Magistrates and their respective police teams in ensuring the smooth conduct of counting day activities.

ASP Bikram Kumar further elaborated on the security arrangements, highlighting the need for strict vigilance and proactive measures.

All Executive Magistrates were directed to be present at their designated stations along with their police counterparts throughout the counting process. Special emphasis was placed on maintaining law and order around the counting centers and ensuring that no untoward incidents occur.

It was reiterated that there should be seamless coordination between the civil administration and police teams to promptly address any law and order situations. Magistrates were instructed to remain in close contact with their police counterparts to ensure a quick response to any emerging issues.

ASP Bikram Kumar reviewed the security arrangements at counting centers and surrounding areas, stressing the need for additional security personnel at vulnerable points. He also emphasized the strict enforcement of Section 164 of BNSS, 2023, which prohibits the assembly of more than five people near the counting centers to prevent any gatherings that could disrupt the process.

All magistrates and police officials were instructed to have emergency response plans in place, with quick access to additional resources if required. Ambulances, fire brigades, and other essential services are to be kept on standby.

The entry and exit of authorized personnel within the counting centers will be closely monitored. All officials were directed to ensure that only individuals with valid passes are allowed inside the premises.

In conclusion, ADC Rajiv Khajuria and ASP Bikram Kumar expressed confidence that with meticulous planning and cooperation between the magistrates and police officers, the counting day proceedings would be conducted without disruption. They further urged all officers to perform their duties with utmost diligence and responsibility, as the day holds significant importance for the democratic process.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from all attending officers to ensure the peaceful and transparent conduct of counting on October 8.