Security beefed up in Bijepur for by-election

Bargarh: Security has been beefed up in the bypoll-bound Bijepur after high-voltage campaigning by political parties ended on Thursday. Five platoons of CRPF and BSF have been deployed in the Assembly constituency for smooth conduct of the election on February 24.

Speaking at a presser today, Bargarh district collector Yamini Sarangi said as many as 12 police squads have been formed including three flying squads, three surveillance squads and three check post squads to avoid any untoward incident in the constituency.

"We are taking all steps to hold a peaceful bypoll. Photography and videography of the entire polling process will be done," she added.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Bargarh, Jai Narayan Pankaj said a total of 30 Inspectors, 150 Sub-Inspectors and 40 mobile teams have been deployed in the polling booths along with five platoons of CRPF and BSF.

Police have already swung into action in the constituency and started intensive checking of vehicles to prevent flow of money and liquor, said Pankaj.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated in a presser, "Despite an SOS on possible attack by some miscreants from Sohela was sent last night, the administration did not take any precaution."