Pune District Collector Calls for Drastic Measures to Eradicate Illegal Businesses Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections
Sumit Singh & Tikam Shekhawat
Pune, 6th March 2024: In a strategic move to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process, District Collector Dr. Suhas Diwase has issued a directive to initiate aggressive measures against illegal businesses in the district leading up to the upcoming Lok Sabha general elections.
Dr. Diwase conveyed this imperative during a comprehensive review meeting at the Collectorate, discussing preparations for the Lok Sabha general elections. The meeting included the participation of District Superintendent of Police Pankaj Deshmukh, Maval Election Returning Officer Deepak Singla, Shirur Election Returning Officer Ajay More, Baramati Election Returning Officer Kavita Dwivedi, Deputy District Election Officer Meenal Kalaskar, Resident Deputy Collector Jyoti Kadam, and other key stakeholders.
The District Collector emphasized the need to identify highly sensitive and sensitive areas within the district, aligning with the unique challenges posed by the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Collaborative efforts with the police department were encouraged to conduct thorough security assessments of polling stations in these identified areas, with a focus on immediate collection of weapons and the implementation of preventive measures.
Dr. Diwase further directed swift resolution of pending cases related to law and order issues, urging authorities to address all instances of criminality promptly. During the code of conduct period, the police department was instructed to formulate location-specific plans for policing arrangements, prioritizing the prevention of any law and order issues.
To address potential issues such as illegal bank transactions and large-scale liquor stockpiling during the model code of conduct period, coordinating officers were designated with the responsibility of overseeing these aspects. EVM security was highlighted as a priority, with a single dedicated team assigned for EVM transportation. In accordance with Election Commission of India guidelines, heightened security measures were advised for locations with more than five polling booths.
Dr. Diwase emphasized the importance of organizing training sessions for coordinating officers involved in election-related activities. Stringent control over political party expenses during the election period was mandated, with daily reports being requested for monitoring. The District Collector stressed the need for meticulous planning across all relevant sectors to ensure seamless coordination during the electoral process.
During the meeting, a comprehensive review covered highly sensitive and sensitive polling stations, illegal bank transactions, unlawful liquor stockpiling, arms control, cost management, police deployment, vehicle acquisition, election-related training, and adherence to the model code of conduct.
This proactive approach by District Collector Dr. Suhas Diwase reflects a commitment to fair and transparent elections, with a focus on eradicating illegal activities that could compromise the sanctity of the democratic process.
