Pune Prepares for Lok Sabha Elections: Extensive Security Measures Announced
Pune, 18th March 2024: In anticipation of the Lok Sabha elections, extensive measures are being implemented across Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and rural areas to address potential security concerns. Approximately 10,000 individuals with criminal records are slated for preventive action, with significant manpower dedicated to ensuring election security – 7,000 in Pune, 4,500 in Pimpri-Chinchwad, and over 5,000 in rural areas.
During a press conference convened by the Pune City Police Commissioner, Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissioner, and Pune Rural Superintendent of Police, detailed plans were outlined. Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar highlighted the presence of 3,227 polling stations in Pune city, including 430 within the Baramati constituency. Over 7,000 police officers and employees have undergone election-related training, with specialized teams assigned to enforce the code of conduct. Priority areas for enforcement include combating narcotics, monitoring large cash transactions, curbing illicit liquor production and transportation, and securing 16 sensitive polling stations.
Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissioner Vinay Kumar Choubey underscored the security measures in the Maval and Shirur Lok Sabha constituencies, which encompass 1,854 polling stations. Since December 1st, preventive action has been taken against 2,500 individuals, leading to the apprehension of 99 suspects and the seizure of 31 pistols and 175 other weapons. Notably, 13 individuals have been charged under the Maharashtra Prevention of Dangerous Activities of Slumlords, Bootleggers (Drug-offenders, Dangerous persons and video pirates) Act, 1981 (MPDA), with further intensification of efforts underway, including the collection of licensed firearms. For the elections, a workforce of 4,500 officers and employees is dedicated to security operations.
In the rural areas covering Shirur, Maval, and Baramati constituencies, comprising 3,102 polling stations, a comprehensive preventive action plan has been devised. Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Pankaj Deshmukh reported the seizure of 22 unlicensed pistols since January, alongside associated arrests. A preventive strategy targeting 6,000 individuals with criminal backgrounds is set to be implemented to ensure election integrity and public safety.
