Indian Army Conducts 140 Sorties to Support Voter Participation in Maharashtra Assembly Elections

The Indian Army, in collaboration with partner forces, conducted 140 sorties over 77 hours from November 17 to 20. They transported 925 passengers and 8,385 kg of cargo to ensure participation in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, even in remote and Naxal-affected areas. The elections took place on November 20, with results announced on November 23, officials reported.

The army's efforts were crucial in enabling voters from challenging regions to cast their votes. A senior army official stated that the army, along with other security forces, mobilised essential resources for this purpose. Two Advanced Light Helicopters (ALHs) were deployed to facilitate the movement of election officials and logistics, including Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), to areas lacking surface connectivity.

Army's Role in Remote Areas

This deployment ensured the election process was carried out successfully in difficult and remote locations. From November 17 to 20, the army and its partners flew a total of 140 sorties over 77 hours, transporting 925 passengers and 8,385 kg of cargo. Of these, the Indian Army conducted 17 sorties, clocking approximately 22 hours of flight time and carrying 124 passengers.

During the de-induction phase from November 20 to 21, the forces collectively flew 56 sorties over 23 hours. They moved 408 passengers and transported 6,980 kg of cargo. The Indian Army alone conducted nine sorties during this phase, totalling 10 hours of flight time and carrying 73 passengers.

Facilitating Election Logistics

The army's aviation helicopters played a vital role in transporting election officials and EVMs from Wadsa to various hard-to-reach locations. These included Sawargaon (165 km), Gyarapatti (70 km), Muramgaon (68 km), and Katezari (50 km), all severely impacted by Naxalite activities.

The successful execution of these operations underscored the army’s significant role in supporting democratic processes. It ensured every citizen could participate in the election process, regardless of their location's remoteness.