Mumbai Police Mobilize Massive Force for BMC Elections
The Mumbai Police have launched a comprehensive security operation ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections on Thursday. More than 28,000 police personnel will fan out across the city to maintain law and order during the high-stakes civic polls.
Coordinated Efforts with Election Squads
On Wednesday night, police officers across Mumbai will remain on high alert. They will maintain constant communication with flying squads from the election staff. A senior police officer explained the protocol. "Our officials must rush to the spot immediately if any complaints arise. These could involve law-and-order violations or inducements like cash or alcohol distribution. The goal is to ensure election staff can perform their duties without any disruption," the officer stated.
Extensive Police Deployment Details
The police force deployment is both massive and detailed. It includes 10 additional commissioners, 33 deputy commissioners of police, and 84 assistant commissioners of police. The ranks also feature 3,000 officers and 25,000 constables. Specialized units will bolster security at sensitive locations. State Reserve Police Force platoons, Quick Response Teams, and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad will be stationed. Riot Control Police and Home Guards will also join the security cordon.
Traffic Restrictions for Vote-Counting Day
Authorities have planned specific traffic curbs for Friday, which is vote-counting day. A senior official highlighted the reason behind these measures. "Party workers will gather at vote-counting centres. This could easily cause traffic congestion. We have closed some roads and provided clear alternative routes to manage the flow," the official added. These restrictions aim to prevent gridlock and ensure smooth movement around counting venues.
Flag Marches as a Show of Strength
In the days leading up to the polls, police conducted 'flag marches' across various city areas. These marches focused on localities that witnessed law and order issues during earlier elections. Each flag march involved between 150 and 200 police personnel. They marched through areas, making announcements through public address systems. Senior officers like Deputy Commissioners of Police joined the marches in several sensitive zones.
A police officer elaborated on the purpose of these displays. "This is a deliberate show of strength by the police. It serves two audiences. For anti-social elements, it demonstrates the might of the police to those intending to break the law. For the general public, it provides assurance. People see that police are present and active. They should not feel scared and can vote freely," the officer explained.
Strategic Timing of Route Marches
DCP Ragasudha of Zone IV led route marches on Tuesday morning. Officers from local police stations and assistant commissioners of police participated. The marches covered areas under the jurisdiction of the Wadala and Antop Hill police stations. Ragasudha noted the selection criteria. "We choose areas based on issues that may have occurred there earlier. This informs our decision on where to carry out route marches," she said.
An officer from South Mumbai detailed the strategic timing. Police generally conduct route marches before EVM machines are dispatched to polling centres. "Once EVMs reach polling centres, personnel from police stations are stationed in these areas. They cover a circumference of 100 metres. Therefore, these marches are carried out a few days before the polls," the officer clarified. This proactive approach aims to deter trouble and build public confidence well in advance.
