Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh: Srikakulam District Police have completed comprehensive security arrangements for the municipal election vote counting scheduled for November 3, with approximately 500 police officers and personnel deployed to ensure a peaceful, transparent and orderly counting process.
District Superintendent of Police K. V. Maheshwara Reddy, IPS, stated that elaborate security measures have been put in place at the counting centres, strong rooms and surrounding areas in Ichapuram and Palasa municipalities.
Three-Tier Security Arrangements
The security arrangements include a three-tier system involving two Additional Superintendents of Police, four Deputy Superintendents of Police and approximately 500 police officers and personnel.
The designated counting centres are:
- Ichapuram Municipality: Model School.
- Palasa Municipality: Junior College.
Police personnel will maintain a continuous security presence at both locations. CCTV cameras and drone cameras will be used to monitor the counting centres and surrounding areas to ensure effective surveillance and prevent any untoward incidents.
Strict Instructions for Counting Agents
The District SP has instructed counting agents to occupy only the seats allotted to them by election officials and refrain from interfering with official duties. Entry into the counting centres will be restricted to authorised persons, including candidates and their representatives, in accordance with Election Commission guidelines.
Carrying mobile phones and other electronic devices inside the counting centres will not be permitted, as per the prescribed rules.
Candidates, counting agents and other authorised persons have also been instructed to park their vehicles only in the designated parking areas arranged by the police department.
Traffic Management and Public Safety
Special traffic regulation and diversion measures will be implemented around the counting centres. Unauthorised vehicles will not be permitted to enter or gather in restricted areas.
The police have urged everyone to strictly comply with election regulations and the applicable provisions of the Police Act, including Section 30, and the relevant prohibitory orders under Section 144, as stated by the department.
Warning Against Victory Rallies and Fake News
The District SP has cautioned political parties, candidates and their supporters against conducting unauthorised victory rallies, bursting fireworks or engaging in activities that could disturb public peace after the declaration of results.
He also warned against spreading or forwarding false information and inflammatory or hateful messages on social media regarding election results. Legal action will be initiated against those involved in such activities.
District SP K. V. Maheshwara Reddy, IPS, appealed to political parties, candidates, counting agents and the public to extend their full cooperation to the police department.
The extensive arrangements reflect Srikakulam District Police’s commitment to maintaining law and order, protecting public safety and ensuring that the municipal election counting process is completed peacefully and transparently.
