Puducherry Police have heightened security measures in preparation for the forthcoming assembly elections, scheduled for April 9. As part of these measures, a total of 35 checkposts have been strategically set up to monitor the movement of individuals and vehicles throughout the region. R. Kalaivanan, Senior Superintendent of Police for Law and Order in Puducherry, emphasized the seriousness of these preparations, stating that continuous surveillance will be implemented to ensure a fair electoral process.

Deployment of Flying Squads and Drone Surveillance

In addition to the checkposts, the police department has instituted three flying squads per assembly constituency that will operate around the clock. This approach aims to further strengthen oversight during the election period. Drone surveillance is being incorporated to enhance monitoring capabilities, with efforts already leading to the discovery of illegal activities, including cash distribution. Two such cases have been actively pursued by law enforcement, resulting in arrests and subsequent legal action.

Significant Seizures Ahead of Elections

In the lead-up to the elections, Puducherry Police have reported notable seizures, including nearly 2,600 litres of illicit liquor and banned tobacco products, alongside approximately 3 kg of gold. These efforts fall within the broader mandate of ensuring a secure electoral atmosphere free from any malpractices.

Social Media Monitoring Initiatives

The police have also established a dedicated social media monitoring cell to keep track of online activity related to the elections. This initiative aims to prevent the spread of misinformation and the use of social media platforms for electoral fraud. Authorities are taking a proactive stance to investigate suspicious activities online, further demonstrating their resolve to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

Election Schedule and Political Context

The voting process in Puducherry is set to commence on April 9, with the counting of votes scheduled for May 4. The current legislative assembly, consisting of 30 members, is due to conclude its term on June 15. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is competing with candidates from several parties, including the All India N R Congress (AINRC) led by Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, which is contesting 16 constituencies. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is contesting 10 seats, while both the AIADMK and LJK have fielded candidates in two constituencies each.

INDIA Bloc Participation

The opposition coalition, known as the INDIA bloc, includes the Congress party, which is also contesting 16 seats, alongside the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), which is contesting 14. The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), part of the Secular Progressive Alliance in Tamil Nadu, has chosen to run independently in three constituencies after receiving a limited allocation from the coalition.

Recent Election History

In the 2021 assembly elections, the AINRC emerged as the predominant party, securing 10 seats, while the DMK followed with six seats. Both the BJP and Congress also achieved six seats each. The voter turnout during that election was 84.8 percent. By contrast, in the 2016 elections, Congress had won a majority with 15 seats, while AINRC, AIADMK, and DMK garnered eight, four, and two seats, respectively, with a voter turnout of 83.6 percent.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share