Massive Security and Surveillance Deployed for Sambhajinagar Civic Polls
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar witnessed a massive deployment of election officials and police forces on Thursday. The city prepared for the municipal corporation elections with extensive manpower and advanced surveillance systems. Authorities implemented comprehensive preventive measures to guarantee a peaceful voting process for all citizens.
Polling Infrastructure and Personnel
Polling stations opened across 363 buildings in the city, totaling 1,267 locations. Election officials appointed 5,588 polling personnel for this crucial exercise. This team included presiding officers and polling officers who received thorough training beforehand. Standby arrangements remained ready to handle any last-minute contingencies that might arise during voting hours.
The electorate for these elections consists of 11,18,284 registered voters. These voters will elect 115 corporators to represent them in the municipal corporation. A total of 859 candidates entered the electoral fray, comprising 480 men and 379 women. Candidates represent various political parties and independent positions, making for a competitive democratic process.
Security Measures and Police Deployment
Police Commissioner Pravin Pawar announced significant security arrangements for election day. The police department deployed 3,307 officers and personnel across the city. They received support from 1,928 home guards to bolster security presence. Additional strength came from one company and two platoons of the State Reserve Police Force.
"Our objective remains clear," Pawar stated. "We want to ensure that polling and counting occur in a completely peaceful atmosphere. Every citizen should exercise their right to vote freely without any fear or intimidation."
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Ratnakar Navale detailed extensive preventive actions taken before polling day. Police carried out 905 preventive actions, including 88 actions under the Code of Criminal Procedure. Authorities externed 28 people under the Maharashtra Police Act and detained four accused under MPDA provisions. Action also proceeded against three accused under MCOCA regulations.
Surveillance and Monitoring Systems
Webcasting facilities enhanced transparency at polling stations throughout the city. Officials installed these systems inside and outside 537 polling stations for continuous monitoring. The election department appointed 173 sector officers to oversee polling-day operations. These officers addressed complaints and resolved logistical issues at the local level promptly.
Police registered 211 cases related to illegal liquor activities, seizing contraband worth Rs 7.21 lakh. Another 18 cases fell under the NDPS Act, with seizures valued at Rs 11.87 lakh. As part of election-related precautions, citizens deposited 847 weapons across various police stations. Authorities took action against 283 persons under BNSS Section 163 provisions.
Counting Arrangements and Historical Context
Four centers received designation as strong rooms and counting venues for all 29 wards. These centers include:
- Government Engineering College, Usmanpura
- Government Polytechnic College, Station Road
- St. Francis High School, Jalna Road
- Garware IT Park at Chikalthana MIDC
Security forces implemented multiple strategies to maintain order. Extensive patrolling covered sensitive areas throughout the city. Fixed-point deployments, foot patrols, and drone surveillance provided comprehensive coverage. Plainclothes teams, Quick Response Teams, Damini squads, and traffic police all contributed to election security efforts.
The 2015 civic polls achieved a record voter turnout of 63%. Election officials acknowledged that surpassing this figure under the current ward-wise voting system presents a significant challenge. The election department worked diligently to facilitate maximum participation while ensuring complete security for all voters and candidates.
