Police chalk out plans to check poll code violations

KOCHI

: With election season underway, police have been pressed into action to check model code of conduct violations, including use of methods like hiring goons to influence voters.


Police said the action of city police against the backdrop of elections would be on three fronts. “A clampdown on antisocial elements would be the first step and Operation

King Cobra

, which is already going on, would ensure this. By this action, we are trying to ensure that goons are not hired by anyone to intimidate voters,” said deputy commissioner of police (DCP) J Himendranath.

The second front is

swift

and thorough vehicle checking to prevent smuggling. “There is a possibility of liquor, cash and even drugs being smuggled to influence voters. We would be on high alert and vehicle checking would be done vehemently to curb such practices,” said the DCP. “Apart from checking during peak traffic hours, it will continue in night hours as well,” said police.

Officers said that the third front would be explosives and arms sector.

“Apart from sportspersons and security agencies, who could be allowed to handle weapons, others who are in possession of arms would have to hand it over to the agency concerned. Police would facilitate this by conducting checks in armouries and by assisting the district administration,” said the DCP.

He added that the police would act as facilitator to the Election Commission (EC) whenever a model code of conduct violation happens. “If the violations are cognizable we will register a case and take action. In other cases, we would act as an enabler to the EC,” said the DCP.

Police would act in coordination with the EC whenever a rule violation like using illegal posters and illegal use of loudspeakers happens during campaigning.