The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a series of directives to Chief Secretaries, Director Generals of Police of all States/Union Territories (UTs), and heads of central agencies.
During a significant meeting, chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar alongside ECs Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, top officials from various regions and central agencies convened to review and evaluate the law and order situation, as well as strategies for preventing illicit activities and maintaining strict vigilance across inter-state and international borders.
CEC Rajiv Kumar emphasized the Commission’s unwavering commitment to ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections, urging all stakeholders to collaborate seamlessly. He stressed the importance of every voter being able to exercise their democratic right without fear or intimidation.
Key issues discussed included enhanced coordination among neighboring States/UTs, deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), identification and monitoring of potential flashpoints in border areas, and preemptive measures to address communal tensions. The Commission also highlighted the necessity of curbing illegal activities, such as the movement of contraband items, across international borders.
The meeting further addressed logistical support for polling teams in challenging regions, adequate security measures for political functionaries and candidates, and swift action to assist Internally Displaced Persons in conflict-affected areas.
General directions were issued regarding law and order, expenditure monitoring, and directives to central agencies for strict vigilance along international borders. These included the establishment of integrated check posts, sharing intelligence on criminals, sealing of inter-state borders during the last 48 hours before polling, and intensified patrolling.
Moreover, measures to plug the inflow of illicit liquor, cash, and drugs, as well as strengthening monitoring at check posts, were emphasized. Central agencies were directed to maintain strict vigilance along the borders with Myanmar, Nepal, Bangladesh, and China, among others, and to hold regular coordination meetings with state police and other relevant authorities.