Elections- Telangana Police Outline Security Plan Ahead of Municipal Polls
Elections- Telangana’s police leadership has begun final preparations to ensure a smooth and lawful conduct of the upcoming municipal elections. The state’s Director General of Police, Shivaraj Reddy, reviewed security arrangements and law and order measures during a video conference held at the State DGP office in Hyderabad.
During the interaction, the DGP connected with Police Commissioners, District Superintendents of Police, and Station House Officers from areas scheduled to go to the polls. He stressed that the elections must be carried out efficiently, transparently, and strictly in line with legal provisions.
Focus on Large-Scale Poll Arrangements
Municipal elections are set to take place in seven municipal corporations and 116 municipalities across Telangana, making it one of the largest coordinated civic exercises in the state. Polling will cover 414 wards within the corporations of Kothagudem, Karimnagar, Mahabubnagar, Mancherial, Nizamabad, Nalgonda, and Ramagundam, along with 2,582 wards in the municipalities.
With voting scheduled for February 11 and counting on February 13, the DGP instructed officers to ensure that every phase of the election proceeds without disruption. He noted that the conduct of the police during the polls should reflect professionalism and enhance public confidence in the department and the government.
Zero Tolerance for Violations and Complaints
Emphasising accountability, the police chief made it clear that no lapses would be tolerated. Officers were directed to take all preventive steps to avoid complaints, disturbances, or any untoward incidents. He underlined that firm and lawful action should be taken wherever required, without hesitation or bias.
The emphasis, he said, must be on maintaining peace while safeguarding the democratic rights of voters and candidates alike.
Legal Provisions Explained to Field Officers
Hyderabad Police Legal Advisor Sri Ramulu briefed officers on the legal framework governing election conduct. He highlighted that attempts to influence voters, compel them to vote for a particular candidate, or obstruct the filing of nominations are serious offences that attract stringent punishment.
He also warned against social or economic boycotts, stating that such actions against individuals would invite severe legal consequences under existing laws.
Liquor, Arms, and Public Order Restrictions
Officials were reminded that distribution of liquor or violations of excise regulations during the election period could lead to imprisonment ranging from six months to two years. Licensed firearm holders were instructed to deposit their weapons at police stations as per norms, with failure to comply potentially resulting in jail terms of one to three years.
The DGP reiterated that these measures are essential to prevent intimidation and ensure a peaceful polling environment.
Campaign Rules and Use of Public Spaces
Strict enforcement of campaign-related regulations was also discussed. Unauthorized posters, wall writings, or obscene advertisements in public places would be removed immediately, and criminal cases could be registered against those responsible. To control noise pollution, the use of loudspeakers without prior police permission was flagged as a punishable offence.
Regarding campaign vehicles, officers were told that prior approval from the Returning Officer is mandatory. Permission documents must be clearly displayed on the front of vehicles used for electioneering.
Restrictions on Religious Institutions and Public Gatherings
The meeting also addressed the misuse of religious institutions for political प्रचार. Using places of worship for party promotion or political messaging was described as a serious offence. Hate speech or actions that incite tensions between communities could attract imprisonment of up to five years.
For public meetings, rallies, and processions, organisers must obtain licenses in advance. Any activity that disrupts public life or defies police instructions would lead to strict action, including prosecution for obstructing election duties or engaging in illegal practices such as rigging.
Senior police officials, including AIG (Law and Order) Ramana Kumar, along with commissioners, SPs, and SHOs from election-bound areas, attended the video conference.