In preparation for the Andhra Pradesh Assembly Elections 2024, thousands of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel drawn from various units, including the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Border Security Force (BSF), and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), have been deployed across the state.
Clad in battle fatigues and armed with automatic weapons, these personnel are patrolling vulnerable areas, including towns, cities, and tribal habitations. They are urging voters to exercise their franchise without fear in the elections scheduled to be held on May 13.
Police and election authorities are also making door-to-door visits to enlighten villagers on the significance of voting and the importance of participating in the electoral process.
On the other hand, police teams, along with flying squads and Model Code of Conduct (MCC) teams, are diligently checking vehicles at district and state borders to curb illegal transportation of liquor, cash, and other valuables.
In Prakasam district, police have organized flag marches in multiple mandals, including Cheemakurthi, Santanutalapadu, Yerragondlapalem, Tanguturu, Marripudi, Kondapi, Darsi, Kanigiri, Giddaluru, Tripurantakam, Markapuram, Veligondla, Singarayakonda, and others.
Director General of Police K.V. Rajendranath Reddy has confirmed that 229 companies of Central Armed Reserved Forces have arrived in the state for election duty, with a total strength of 20,000 personnel being deployed across the state.
Guntur Range IG Sarvashresta Tripathi has emphasized the need for heightened vigilance in critical locations and has directed the police to step up their efforts in maintaining law and order.
Police teams have organized foot patrolling in villages, explaining to the people the importance of voting and encouraging them to use their right to vote.
Mock operations have been conducted to prepare the forces for various situations, including quelling mobs, using tear gas, conducting rope party drills, dispersing crowds, and controlling violence at polling stations. Personnel have also received training on using helmets, stone guards, public address systems, and other equipment in case of emergencies.
In Krishna district, police are focusing on curbing liquor and ganja smuggling, as well as illegal transportation of money, jewelry, and freebies from neighboring districts. They have conducted flag marches in several villages and have registered nearly 250 cases against liquor smugglers, with over 200 bound over.
The NTR Commissionerate police have tightened security along border check posts to prevent illegal activities. CAPF and police personnel have conducted patrolling in tribal hamlets, leading to the apprehension of liquor smugglers and manufacturers.
These comprehensive security measures are aimed at ensuring a peaceful and fair electoral process, allowing the people of Andhra Pradesh to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.
