Tight security in place
Unprecedented security arrangements have been made for the Bellary rural bypoll. In addition to the four companies of Central Paramilitary Force (CPMF) already stationed in the constituency, as many as 20 platoons of Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP) have been deployed ahead of the November 30 elections to ensure free and fair polls.
Five platoons of KSRP have already reached Bellary and the remaining 15 would be reaching the constituency shortly. Chief Electoral Officer (in-charge) R Manoj said the platoons have commenced their constituency acquaintance exercise.
“We want to ensure that no stone is left unturned to ensure free and fair polls. Till now there have been no complaints of voter intimidation. If there are any complaints, standing instructions have been issued to take immediate action,” Manoj said.
He said as many as 367 non-bailable warrants pertaining to pending cases have been issued. Besides, 163 persons have been taken into preventive custody. As per the directions of the Election Commission of India to Andhra Pradesh to seal its border with Bellary, checkposts have been put up at all entry points to Bellary, Manoj said.
On Friday, two complaints against Independent candidate B Sriramulu were received - one for allegedly making use of a temple for canvassing and another for distribution of food.
In all, as many as nine cases pertaining to violating model code of conduct and 13 excise cases have been registered so far.
