All efforts to allay voters' fear in Maoist areas

Paramilitary force to help SVEEP, says Udupi SP

As people residing in the Naxal affected areas are under threat to cast their votes for fearing backlash from naxals, the district administration is making all efforts to make them exercise their franchise.

The Systematic Elections Voter Education and Electoral Participation Program (SVEEP) has been introduced in these areas to boost the morale of the voters to come out and participate in the democratic process. The Central Reserve Police Force and Rapid Action Force platoons that will soon reach here as part of election security will also ensure smooth conduct of polls in naxal prone areas.

Paramilitary force

Superintendent of Police Dr Boralingaiah M B told Deccan Herald that Paramilitary Force will take up the position shortly in the naxal areas. Through these forces, the department will create an environment of safety and make the people feel secured.

Combing operation has also been intensified to avoid possible disturbances from Maoists. The SVEEP programmes will be introduced in these areas. If need arises, the parade exercise by Paramilitary Force will be frequently held.

Under SVEEP programme, voters are made to sensitise to ignore if at all, they come across Maoists scriptures threatening them against voting. The voters will be asked to be confident on the measures taken up by the police force. The people are given maximum security, he added.
 
ZP CEO Prabhakar Sharma said that measures are taken up under SVEEP programmes to make the people in the naxal affected areas aware about the importance of voting. Special authorities from the district administration will visit the areas and ensure security measures.

The block level officers and village accountants in the areas are directed to sensitise the voters and assure them all help in case of threat and danger, he added.