Tailored protection plans rolled out for high-risk poll candidates

Srinagar, Aug 28: As the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir draw closer, authorities have ramped up security measures to ensure the safety of contesting candidates and the smooth conduct of the electoral process.

The Security Wing of the J&K Police, in coordination with District Police, has been tasked with managing the security of all candidates filing nominations, as well as those actively campaigning across J&K.

A senior Police officer said that comprehensive threat assessments had already been carried out for all candidates, especially given the volatile security situation in Kashmir.

“The candidates who filed nominations today and in the past days have been provided adequate security,” he said. “We are also extending security cover to candidates announced by political parties, regardless of whether they have filed their nominations yet.”

The officer said: “We have increased the visibility of security forces manifold in areas where political activities are intensifying. Every step is being taken with intent to prevent any untoward incidents.”

The security agencies have decided to tailor security arrangements for candidates based on their individual threat perceptions.

“With a significant number of candidates expected to contest, those deemed at higher risk will be grouped at secure locations,” the officer said.

They have also planned to provide these candidates with armed escorts during their campaign activities. “This move aims to ensure their safety while allowing them to carry out election-related duties,” he said.

“The provision of security to candidates is being meticulously planned, with specific focus on those who are perceived to be at higher risk due to their political affiliations or public profiles,” the officer said and denied disclosing the exact number of personnel deployed or the specifics of the security arrangements, citing security concerns.

However, it is understood that a mix of static and mobile security units has been assigned to ensure the safety of the candidates.

"Security is being tailored to the needs of each candidate, based on the threat perception,” the senior officer said. "We are also closely monitoring intelligence inputs and adjusting our security posture accordingly.”

The upcoming Assembly polls are being seen as a litmus test for J&K’s political future.

With the BJP seeking to consolidate its position post-Article 370 abrogation, and traditional parties like the National Conference and People’s Democratic Party aiming to regain lost ground, the political climate is charged.

Ahead of the first phase of elections in south Kashmir on September 18, authorities have assured comprehensive security arrangements for all contesting candidates.

Additionally, the venues for campaign rallies and public meetings will be secured to prevent any disruptions or threats.

The security forces will be deployed to monitor these areas, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere for political activities.

The senior Police officer said that the security plan for the elections has been meticulously crafted and finalised.

"We have left no stone unturned in our preparations. Area domination has been upgraded across south Kashmir to prevent any untoward incidents," the officer said.

The re-deployment of the security forces comes as part of a broader strategy to counter potential threats and ensure the safety of voters and polling staff.

South Kashmir, comprising districts like Anantnag, Pulwama, Kulgam, and Shopian, has historically been a region of concern due to the presence of terror activities and heightened political sensitivities.