As the election season approaches, Panchkula police have ramped up security measures to ensure a free and fair voting process. Under the supervision of Police Commissioner Shibas Kaviraj and Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Himadri Kaushik, authorities have implemented robust plans, which include increased surveillance and security at polling booths.
According to a police spokesperson, a total of 12 Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) will monitor the district 24/7. In the final 72 hours before the elections, four special inter-state border checkpoints will be established. These will closely monitor all persons and vehicles entering Panchkula from other states, ensuring no suspicious activity can influence the electoral process.
Additionally, four crime units led by inspector-level officers will focus on election-related crimes, including the trafficking of illegal liquor, cash, or weapons.
“Flag marches are being carried out regularly in all neighbourhoods, markets, and sectors to assure voters of the peaceful conduct of elections,” the spokesperson stated. The police, with the support of paramilitary forces, are urging the public to exercise their right to vote freely and without fear.
For the Kalka and Panchkula constituencies, 455 polling booths have been set up, and 12 SST teams, 6 Flying Squad Teams (FST), and 20 patrolling teams will monitor activities around these booths. Out of these, 116 critical booths will have a heavy deployment of paramilitary forces alongside the police. In total, 2,200 security personnel will be stationed across the district to maintain peace and order during the elections.
On election day, paramilitary forces will be stationed at polling booths, with regular inspections conducted by station in-charges to ensure security protocols are maintained. Patrolling units will remain in constant coordination with polling stations, ensuring real-time updates on any suspicious activity.
DCP Kaushik revealed that 12 SST teams at border checkpoints have already begun monitoring vehicles and individuals. So far, the police have seized Rs 85.99 lakh in cash and registered 47 cases of illegal liquor trafficking, 17 gambling cases, and 21 drug-related cases. To maintain public safety, Section 163 of the Indian Civil Security Code 2023 has been implemented in Panchkula from October 5 to October 8, 2024. DCP Kaushik emphasized that anyone found violating the law will face action under Section 223 of the Indian Justice Code 2023.
In response to the rising concern over fake news, DCP Kaushik announced that an IT expert team has been formed to monitor social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Legal action will be taken against individuals spreading misinformation during the election.
DCP Kaushik has appealed to residents to comply with the Model Code of Conduct and report any suspicious activity or election-related violations to the police at 112 or 708-708-1100.