Imposition of Section 144 CrPC
The Hyderabad city police have imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) ahead of the Lok Sabha poll counting. This regulation, which prohibits the assembly of four or more people, will be enforced at the counting centers for the Hyderabad and Secunderabad Parliament constituencies. The directive was issued by Hyderabad Police Commissioner K. Sreenivasa Reddy on Monday, ensuring that no one is allowed within a 200-meter radius of the counting halls.
Restrictions and Security Measures
To maintain order and ensure a smooth counting process, several restrictions and security measures have been put in place:
– Liquor Shops Closure: All liquor shops within the city will be closed from 6 am on Tuesday, June 4, to 6 am on Wednesday, June 5.
– Prohibition of Firecrackers: The bursting of firecrackers in public places to celebrate the victory of candidates is strictly prohibited. This measure aims to prevent any disturbances and maintain public safety during the counting process.
Enhanced Security Deployment
In addition to the local city police, personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will be deployed to provide additional security at the counting centers. The district administration, in coordination with the police, has made comprehensive security arrangements at the 16 counting centers across the city. This multi-layered security approach is designed to handle any potential issues and ensure a peaceful and orderly counting process.
Police Commissioner’s Statement
Hyderabad Police Commissioner K. Sreenivasa Reddy emphasized the importance of these measures to maintain law and order. He highlighted that the restrictions are necessary to prevent any untoward incidents that could arise due to large gatherings or celebrations. The police are committed to ensuring a secure environment for the counting of votes and the subsequent announcement of results.
Coordination with District Administration
The district administration is working closely with the police to oversee the implementation of these security measures. This collaboration ensures that all aspects of the counting process are covered, from the safe transportation of ballot boxes to the secure counting of votes. The administration has also set up control rooms to monitor the situation in real-time and respond swiftly to any emergencies.
Public Compliance and Awareness
The public is urged to comply with the imposed restrictions and cooperate with the authorities to facilitate a smooth counting process. Residents are advised to stay informed about the prohibitory orders and plan their activities accordingly. The police have also issued warnings against any attempts to violate the regulations, stating that strict action will be taken against offenders.
Conclusion
The imposition of Section 144 CrPC in Hyderabad for the Lok Sabha poll counting underscores the city’s commitment to ensuring a safe and orderly electoral process. With robust security arrangements and clear directives, the authorities aim to conduct the counting in a peaceful manner, reflecting the true spirit of democracy. The cooperation of the public and the diligent efforts of the police and district administration are crucial in achieving this objective.
