Security tightened in Rajouri, Poonch towns ahead of vote counting

Rajouri, Oct 7: Both Rajouri and Poonch, border towns, have witnessed heightened security ahead of the counting of votes for the assembly elections, with all entry and exit routes being secured.

The District Magistrates of the twin districts have implemented frisking measures to prevent the entry of any nefarious elements into the towns.

Counting centers for all five assembly constituencies of Rajouri district have been established in a school building at the district headquarters, while centers for the three assembly constituencies of Poonch have also been set up at the Poonch district headquarters.

In addition to the three-tier security cover at all counting centers, as per guidelines from the Election Commission of India, both of these border towns, which serve as the district headquarters of the twin districts, have been fortified by security forces.

Officials stated that security forces have put in place a high-alert security plan in the towns, with all entry and exit points secured through Motor Vehicle Check Points (MVCPs) and Pedestrian Check Points (PCPs).

Special Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), particularly from the Special Operations Group (SoG), have been deployed at all vulnerable locations in the towns, especially around the counting centers.

The District Magistrates (DMs) of the twin districts, Vikas Kundal of Poonch and Abhishek Sharma of Rajouri, have issued multiple orders prohibiting the raising of objectionable slogans near counting centers, as well as the carrying of flags or sticks and the bursting of firecrackers in public places and on open roads.

A dry day has also been declared in the twin districts on October 07 and 08, with all wine shops and bars ordered to remain closed.