Gandhinagar, April 6 (NationPress) As Gujarat prepares for its significant local body elections in under three weeks, the state's senior police officials have mandated a rigorous effort to combat criminal activities and implement preventive measures across various districts to ensure a "free and fair" election process.

The orders were communicated during a high-level review meeting led by Director General of Police (DGP) Dr K.L.N. Rao on Monday, who connected with all Police Commissioners and District Police Chiefs through a video conference from Police Bhavan.

This meeting was centered around assessing law and order preparations in advance of the elections, which are set for April 26.

Officials have noted that these elections will encompass a broad range of local governing bodies, including 15 municipal corporations, 84 municipalities, 34 district panchayats, and 260 taluka panchayats, with counting scheduled for April 28.

Voting is anticipated to occur from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. utilizing electronic voting machines, with over 4 crore eligible voters.

During the conference, Rao urged all police divisions to take proactive measures and file as many cases as possible under the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Act (PASA).

He emphasized the need for decisive action against long-evaded suspects and those with criminal histories, highlighting the importance of limiting potential disturbances prior to polling.

“Ensuring free and fair voting in the state is essential,” Rao remarked, calling for enhanced vigilance and coordinated enforcement efforts.

The Model Code of Conduct has been active since April 1, and police forces are expected to provide the final operational boost to the election framework.

ADGP (ATS) Amit Vishwakarma has been assigned as the primary officer to oversee security and enforcement initiatives.

The election timeline indicates that nominations will conclude on April 11, with April 15 marking the deadline for withdrawal of candidatures.

A by-election for the Umreth Assembly constituency is also on the agenda for April 23.

Senior officers have been instructed to amplify combing operations in sensitive areas and monitor illegal arms trafficking and prohibition violations closely.

Rao has also mandated the prompt execution of non-bailable warrants and increased surveillance of known troublemakers.

Security measures are being significantly enhanced, with approximately 9,000 trained LRD recruits and personnel from the Forest Department set to be assigned to election duties.

Recently transferred officers are required to take charge within 24 hours and conduct inspections at polling stations and other sensitive sites.

Authorities are taking into account previous incidents, such as those reported during the 2021 elections in districts like Dahod, with additional forces to be deployed in high-risk areas.

Thorough checks will be performed along interstate boundaries.

The police have been directed to maintain close collaboration with District Election Officers and Collectors, bolster VIP security measures, and enhance communication systems.

Following the release of the final candidate list after April 15, both foot and mobile patrols will be further intensified.

Teams from the Intelligence Bureau (IB) located in Gandhinagar will conduct ongoing surveillance to avert any incidents, with officials asserting that all efforts are aimed at ensuring voters can exercise their rights without fear.