Police have key role in conduct of elections: DC

District Collector Nishanth Kumar emphasised the pivotal role of the Police Department in ensuring the smooth conduct of general elections during a training programme focusing on election procedures and guidelines for police personnel held at the collector’s office on Thursday. In his address, the Collector underscored the critical nature of the police’s responsibilities in election proceedings. He emphasised that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) symbolise the constitutional system and must be safeguarded diligently. Stressing the importance of adherence to rules and guidelines set by the Election Commission, he urged police officers and staff to be vigilant and strictly follow the prescribed procedures.
Collector Nishanth Kumar urged continuous alertness, thorough examination of every matter, proactive problem-solving, and adherence to Election Commission rules to maintain control over the situation. He emphasised the need for a comprehensive understanding of election duties, highlighting that clarity on what needs to be done and avoided is essential. Nishanth Kumar encouraged all involved parties to familiarise themselves with election rules, clear any doubts, and ensure a successful election process.
The District Collector emphasised that the election code comes into effect as soon as the election schedule is announced. He called for meticulous planning and awareness creation by the police in areas such as security planning during nomination receptions, duties during polling, identification of problematic polling stations, and enforcing prohibitions on alcohol, ganja, and money transfers during elections.
District Superintendent of Police Vikrant Patil reiterated the significance of police officers and staff understanding their election duties. He stressed that a comprehensive knowledge of election rules is crucial, ensuring that every employee is well-versed in the do’s and don’ts. Patil emphasised the need for vigilance in remote areas, urging staff to report issues promptly. He emphasised that maintaining law and order is essential for the successful completion of election duties.
The training programme covered various aspects, including pre- and post-election duties, the polling process, receiving nominations, arrangements, scrutiny of nominations, and the identification of problematic polling stations. In-charge District Revenue Officer G Keshav Naidu, DSP Muralidhar, Circle Inspectors, Sub-Inspectors, and police personnel from Parvathipuram and Palakonda divisions attended the programme.