While most of the political parties of Jammu and Kashmir are likely to give local bodies and panchayat polls a miss, the police and paramilitary forces nonetheless will make sure that the process went off “successfully and peacefully.”
Speaking after a high-level security meeting on Wednesday in Srinagar, head of the JK police Dilbagh Singh said. “I am sure elections will pass on successfully and peacefully. I wish my officers on the ground all the very best. Given the past experience of JK police, they have sailed through difficult times and I am sure that the major event (polls) will be successful.”
Singh met with deputy inspector generals (DIGs), district superintendents of police and the officers from police headquarters to review the arrangements for ULB and Panchayat polls. A police spokesman said that the DGP in his address, directed the district police chiefs and DIGs that deployment plans should be worked out and fine-tuned in such a way that fool proof security remains in place.
“The DGP stressed whatever support in shape of logistic and manpower is required will be pooled and placed at the disposal for the smooth conduct of polls,” the spokesman said. “The DGP said stern action should be taken against the elements that foment trouble and at the same time contingency plans should be ready to tackle any eventuality. He directed the officers to take due care in all the situations so that things do not precipitate in any law and order situation.”
In J&K, ULB polls will begin from October 1 and eight phased panchayat polls from November 8. The major political parties National Conference and PDP have decided to stay away from the polls and the Congress has announced situation wasn’t conducive for polls. The State chief secretary has however, stated that polls will be held as per the schedule.
