Ensuring Smooth Polling: A Comprehensive Look at Security Measures in Nagpur and Ramtek

Preparing for the Lok Sabha Polls

As the Lok Sabha polls approach in Nagpur and Ramtek constituencies, the city police and their rural counterparts are gearing up to ensure a seamless and safe voting process. With the first phase of elections scheduled for April 19, extensive preparations are underway to prevent any untoward incidents. Let’s delve into the meticulous planning and strategies put in place to safeguard the electoral process.

Deployment of Security Personnel

City vs. Rural Deployment

• City Deployment: Around 6,500 cops will be deployed across Nagpur to oversee the polling process.
• Rural Deployment: An estimated 4,500 security personnel will be stationed in rural areas during the first phase of polling.

Vigilance and Monitoring

Monitoring Social Media

To combat misinformation and maintain peace, authorities will closely monitor social media platforms for any provocative messages or posts that could incite unrest.

Border Vigilance

Rural police have heightened vigilance at inter-state borders, while city counterparts have established nakabandis at nine entry and exit points.

Polling Booth Distribution

• City: Nagpur will host 2,765 polling booths in 389 premises.
• Rural: The rural district will accommodate 1,745 polling booths, including 52 critical ones.

Security Blueprint

Multi-layered Security Approach

City Police Chief Ravinder Singal and SP Rural Harssh A Poddar outlined a three-layered security plan. Central paramilitary forces will guard polling booths and EVM strongrooms, with State Reserve Police Force and city police forming outer layers.

Additional Security Measures

• Special vigilance at all-women polling booths.
• Patrols by officers of ACP ranks accompanied by strike forces.
• Riot Control Force and Quick Response Teams on high alert.
• Paramilitary forces deployed at sensitive locations.

Seizures and Actions Taken

Pre-election Special Drives

Authorities have seized materials worth ₹85 lakh, including cash, drugs, liquor, firearms, and sharp weapons. Rural police under SP Poddar have seized materials worth Rs37 lakh and initiated action against 994 individuals.

With robust security measures and vigilant monitoring, authorities are committed to ensuring a smooth and peaceful polling process in Nagpur and Ramtek constituencies. The collaborative efforts of city and rural police reflect a dedication to upholding the democratic process and safeguarding the rights of voters.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How many polling booths are there in Nagpur and Ramtek constituencies?
   • Nagpur has 2,765 polling booths, while Ramtek has 1,745 booths.
2. What is the total deployment of security personnel for the first phase of Lok Sabha polls?
   • Approximately 6,500 cops will be deployed in the city, and 4,500 in rural areas.
3. What measures are in place to monitor social media during elections?
   • Authorities will closely monitor social media for provocative messages or posts.
4. How is the security plan structured around polling booths?
   • A three-layered security approach involves central paramilitary forces, State Reserve Police Force, and city police.
5. What actions have been taken against individuals involved in illegal activities before the elections?
   • Authorities have seized materials worth ₹85 lakh and initiated action against 994 individuals.