The Election Commission (EC) has significantly enhanced security measures in preparation for the upcoming Bihar polls. A crucial coordination meeting was held to address concerns regarding the influx of anti-social elements, illegal drugs, and the distribution of freebies into the state from neighboring regions and Nepal.
This important meeting saw participation from top officials representing Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. Representatives from the Union Home Ministry, various enforcement agencies, and the Railways also contributed to the discussions.
The polling dates for Bihar have been set for November 6 and 11, with the vote count scheduled for November 14.
According to an official statement, the senior leadership of the Election Commission thoroughly reviewed the existing law-and-order arrangements within Bihar and its adjacent states. A key focus was placed on monitoring the movement of funds, weapons, individuals with anti-social intentions, liquor, narcotics, and unauthorized freebies across state borders and the international border with Nepal.
Particular attention was given to border districts, with directives issued for enhanced border sealing to uphold peace and order during the election period.
The Commission also assessed the implementation of voter facilitation guidelines to guarantee a positive and seamless voting experience for all citizens on polling days.
Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police (DGPs), alongside heads of central agencies, were instructed to ensure that the elections proceed peacefully and without any inducements.
Furthermore, the Chief Secretaries and DGPs of Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, along with the Director General of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), were directed to bolster vigilance in areas bordering Bihar, implementing stricter checks at interstate checkpoints.
Central agencies such as the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Income Tax Department, Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST), and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) have been tasked with intensifying their efforts leading up to the polls, aiming to maximize seizures based on actionable intelligence.