In a decisive move to guarantee free, fair, and violence-free municipal elections, the Nagpur city police have initiated a massive security operation, placing more than 5,000 known criminals under strict surveillance. This action forms the core of a comprehensive security blueprint for the upcoming Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) polls.
Pre-Poll Crackdown and Strategic Planning
With the NMC elections scheduled for January 15 and the nomination process commencing, City Police Commissioner Ravinder Singal has directed all zonal Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) and the crime branch to intensify preventive measures across the city. Under the supervision of CP Singal and Joint CP Navinchandra Reddy, detailed area-wise lists of history-sheeters, goons, and habitual offenders have been prepared by each zonal DCP and DCP (Crime) Rahul Maknikar.
A senior police official revealed that past crime records from previous polling periods are being meticulously scrutinized. "The ones accused of serious crimes related to polling in the past and also having political links are now being tracked down and brought under surveillance," the official stated, emphasizing that no stone is being left unturned to maintain law and order.
Targeted Operations Against Key Threats
Commissioner Singal's directives mandate the swift execution of pending warrants, arrests of fugitives, issuance of externment orders, and targeted raids on potential trouble spots. The operation specifically aims to neutralize threats from "body offenders"—individuals involved in serious crimes against persons—as well as fugitives wanted in heinous cases. Police teams are conducting door-to-door visits and thorough searches for illegal firearms, sharp weapons, narcotics, and other dangerous items.
Zonal DCP Rashmitha Rao confirmed that her teams have been briefed about criminally-sensitive pockets, and intelligence gathering is in full swing. "Surprise checks and random raids would start across east and south Nagpur," she announced. Special drives are concurrently targeting drug dealers, bootleggers operating illicit liquor dens, and gambling rackets that typically flourish during the election season.
Focus on Bootleggers, Gamblers, and Arms Dealers
DCP (Crime) Rahul Maknikar identified three primary targets: bootleggers, gamblers, and arms dealers. "These elements pose the greatest risk to peaceful polling," Maknikar asserted. He further added, "We are also keeping a close watch on hawala operators who might attempt to ferry cash for influencing voters. All criminals on record are being monitored, and preventive actions, including raids, will be initiated soon."
Comprehensive Security Blueprint for Polling Day
The overarching police strategy encompasses enhanced patrolling in sensitive zones, deployment of quick response teams, and close coordination with election authorities to thwart any attempts at voter intimidation or booth capturing. Sources indicate that similar preventive measures proved effective in past elections, with hundreds of potential disruptors externed or detained beforehand.
The current intensive drive builds upon ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks, ensuring voters can exercise their franchise without fear. CP Ravinder Singal's directives underscore a zero-tolerance policy towards election-related malpractices. "Our goal is a safe and sound polling process where democracy thrives unhindered," he reiterated in internal communications, highlighting the department's commitment to a secure electoral environment.
