Chandigarh Municipal Corporation Conducts Peaceful Mayoral Elections Under Heavy Security
The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation successfully conducted elections for all three key positions—mayor, senior deputy mayor, and deputy mayor—on Thursday under an elaborate security blanket that ensured completely peaceful proceedings throughout the day. No untoward incidents were reported during the entire electoral process, which unfolded smoothly despite heightened political significance.
Unprecedented Security Arrangements for Election Day
Authorities implemented comprehensive security measures that transformed the Municipal Corporation building into a fortified zone. Three deputy superintendent of police (DSP)-rank officers led the security operation, supported by several police inspectors and hundreds of constables deployed both inside and outside the premises. In addition to the substantial police presence, two duty magistrates were appointed to continuously monitor the situation throughout the election process, ensuring proper adherence to electoral protocols.
Strict Access Control and Verification Procedures
As part of precautionary measures, police completely blocked the main entry point of the Municipal Corporation building, allowing only verified personnel to enter after thorough identity card verification. To streamline access and prevent confusion, select Municipal Corporation employees assisted police personnel in identifying legitimate staff members, ensuring that authorized officials faced no difficulties entering the premises while maintaining strict security protocols.
The security arrangements extended to vehicle management as well, with all vehicles barred from entering the Municipal Corporation building complex. Visitors received instructions to park outside the premises, while the internal parking area was exclusively utilized by police personnel for their operational vehicles and equipment.
Designated Entry Points and Restricted Movement
Of the two internal entry points to the building, authorities kept only one open for regular employees and media personnel. The other entry point remained reserved exclusively for councillors, members, and officers directly involved in the election proceedings. Municipal Corporation's own security staff worked alongside police personnel at all entry and exit points, creating multiple layers of security verification.
Public Dealing Temporarily Suspended
In preparation for the election day, the Municipal Corporation issued specific orders on Wednesday instructing all public-dealing branches to temporarily suspend public access during the first half of Thursday's working day. Normal public dealing services resumed only in the second half, after the election process concluded. Due to the critical importance of the election proceedings, no outsiders were permitted inside the building during the voting period.
Complete Restriction on Political Supporters
Supporters and political leaders faced complete entry restrictions until voting for all three posts concluded and official results were announced. This measure prevented any potential gathering of political workers that could have influenced the election atmosphere or created security concerns during the sensitive voting process.
The meticulously planned security operation demonstrated how local authorities can conduct significant democratic exercises while maintaining absolute law and order, setting a precedent for future municipal elections in the region.
