Elections

Ahead of upcoming panchayat polls, Guv Malik reviews situation in JK, calls for ‘heightened vigil’

IMAGE COURTESY: GREATER KASHMIR

Srinagar: Ahead of the crucial panchayat polls slated to start from November 17, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik Friday reviewed the situation at a high-level meeting in Jammu, Kashmir News Service (KNS) reported.

The meeting was attended by senior civil, police, Indian armed police, army, and state and Indian intelligence agencies.

KNS reported that after obtaining sector-wise assessments of the prevailing security situation and arising challenges, Governor Malik emphasized the crucial importance of maintaining a sustained close watch on the ground situation, and appreciated the sustained real time coordination and synergy between the forces’ personnel and the civil administration.

The meeting discussed arrangements made for the smooth conduct of the forthcoming Panchayat elections and the need of a safe environment for the elections. “Considering the pattern of attempts to disturb law and order in the past few days, the Governor especially stressed the need of a heightened vigil and ensuring the safety of protected persons and the security of all-important establishments and installations,” Governor said, as per the KNS report.

The Governor also discussed about the issues relating to the welfare of the police personnel and their families.

Lauding the commitment of forces’ personnel towards their duty and bravery and sacrifices made by them during discharge of their duties, governor stressed that “it is our responsibility to take care of welfare of our police personnel and their families”.

The strategy of holding Panchayat elections in peaceful manner was also discussed during the meeting and  the prevailing scenario at IB and LoC was also on the agenda. “Challenges for the counter-infiltration grid during winter was also discussed during the meeting,” KNS reported.

The Governor directed the officers that deployment plans should be worked out and fine-tuned in such a way that ‘foolproof security’ is provided for these elections.

The panchayat elections will be held on November 17, 20, 24, 27, 29, December 1, 4, 8 and 11. Counting will take place on the day of polling. Votes will be cast using ballot paper, Shaleen Kabra, J&K Chief Electoral Officer had said.

(with inputs from KNS)

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