Gujarat amps up election security; to seal state borders ahead of polling

In a meeting of the state’s top officials with the Election Commission of India (ECI), it was decided that several states, including Gujarat, will have to seal their interstate borders on the day of polling.

In addition, joint action will be taken against history-sheeters and criminals involved in election-related crimes.

Senior officials, including Gujarat’s director general of police (DGP), were present at the meeting. Giving information related to the meeting, he said, “For strict surveillance, integrated checkpoints will be set up on international and interstate borders, and continuous patrolling will be carried out. These borders will be sealed for the last 48 hours to prevent bogus voting.”

Vigilance is to be set up to stop the flow of illegal liquor, cash, and drugs across the interstate border.

A surprise check of liquor shops will be conducted, verifying their permit authenticity.

Checkposts are to be equipped with CCTV cameras, and joint surveillance by the police, excise, transport, GST, and the forest department will be carried out.

Meanwhile, helipads, airports, and bus and railway stations will be kept under strict vigil.

Moreover, adequate security cover will be provided to political workers and candidates based on their perception of the threat.

The chief secretary of the state, the state DGP, and the additional chief secretary of the home department have been asked to alert the police force and various state agencies.

Voter registrations

Under the special summary revision of the electoral rolls, out of the applications received during September–December last year, more than 13 lakh voter photo identity cards have been approved.

Out of the total 4.4 lakh applications received for electoral roll revision from December 2023 to February this year, 1.4 lakh EPICs (Elector’s Photo Identity Card) have been distributed, and the remaining 2.9 lakh EPICs will be distributed by Apr 20.

Election awareness campaigns

During the IPL matches scheduled to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, various voter awareness programs are to be conducted through videos, hoardings, and banners.

A guide for voters will also be delivered door-to-door to about 1.30 cr households to make voters aware of the process.

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