Additional forces to be deployed for smooth bypolls

Srinagar Mar 24: In view of the poll boycott call by separatist organisations and the subsequent threat, Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to deploy additional security forces for smooth by-polls in three assembly constituencies in the valley.

The by-elections for the three Assembly segments of Pattan, Sangrama and Rafiabad in north Kashmir are going to be held on April 24.

Both the factions of the Hurriyat Conference, Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party (DFP), Kashmir Bar Association (KBA) and all the militant outfits have issued poll boycott calls.

Keeping in view the threat perception, the security arrangements for smooth, fair and impartial conduct of by-election, came up for a thorough review at a high level Police and Security Force officers meeting, held here, with Inspector General of Police IGP), K Rajendra Kumar, in chair.

Speaking in the meeting, the IGP said intelligence and other reports suggest that there was a threat from the anti-national elements. Additional contingents of para military and Police Force therefore need to be deployed in strength in the areas which will go for poll in the Assembly by-elections next month, he added.

Stressing the officers of various wings of security forces and police, to maintain close synergy at various levels, Mr Kumar said this was imperative for maintaining law and order.

He said that the effective surveillance and timely feedback was the key to prevent any untoward incident and to curtail the evil designs of the elements inimical to peace and democratic process.

Mr Kumar also discussed in detail the security of the candidates so that they could start their election campaign without any fear.

He said all efforts should be made to provide safety and security of the voters to help them exercise their franchise without any fear and nothing should be left to chance.

While patrolling the areas, the I G P said no innocent person should be put to inconvenience and any lapse on this account would be viewed seriously.

UNI