Kollam Election Surveillance: Over 42,000 Vehicles Inspected to Ensure Fair Polls
In a major crackdown ahead of the assembly elections, Kollam district collector Devidas N has announced that a staggering 42,470 vehicles have been inspected across various constituencies as part of intensified surveillance efforts. This robust initiative aims to guarantee a free, fair, and transparent electoral process, with static surveillance teams springing into action immediately following the election announcement.
Round-the-Clock Monitoring at Strategic Checkpoints
Temporary check posts have been strategically established on major roads, as well as at district and inter-state borders, to meticulously monitor the movement of illegal liquor, cash intended for bribery, weapons, and other contraband. Officials emphasized that the activities of anti-social elements are being closely watched, with surveillance squads operating 24/7 to prevent any electoral malpractices.
Key checkpoints have reported high inspection volumes:
- Kottukkad in Chavara led with 2,349 vehicle inspections.
- Nilamel in Chadayamangalam followed with 2,217 inspections.
- Mundakkal Papanasam in Eravipuram recorded 2,198 inspections.
Other significant checkpoints include Aryankavu inter-state border with 1,967 inspections and Achankovil with 522. Additional major points of scrutiny are Kallumkadavu (1,965), Thattamala School Junction (1,936), Premier Junction (1,791), Palamuk (1,706), Padappanal (1,489), Kadampattukonam (1,400), Kottakavila (1,394), Ashram and Araayil (1,371 each), Enath (1,350), Parakkulam (1,307), Munrothuruth (1,233), Shakthikulangara (1,213), and Pavumba South (1,201).
Several other locations, such as Venga, Anayadi, Kuzhumathikad, Valiyammuk, and Ayirakuzhi, have also reported substantial inspection numbers, underscoring the comprehensive nature of this surveillance operation.
Deployment of Specialized Surveillance Teams
A total of 33 surveillance teams have been deployed across the district, with three teams assigned to each constituency to ensure thorough coverage. Each team is headed by a gazetted officer who has been vested with the powers of an executive magistrate during inspections, enhancing their authority to enforce election guidelines and regulations effectively.
This extensive vehicle inspection drive reflects the administration's unwavering commitment to maintaining electoral integrity and preventing any undue influence during the assembly elections.
