Puri: As many as three companies of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) along with 18 platoons of Odisha Special Armed Police (OSAP) will be deployed during the forthcoming bypoll to the Pipili Assembly constituency scheduled on April 17.
Following a visit to Pipili and preview of the election preparedness on Wednesday, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP Law & Order) Yashwant Jethwa directed Puri Superintendent of Police (SP) to make a full proof arrangement to handle law and order situation in the area.
According to police sources, as many as three companies of CAPF will be deployed for the bypoll in Pipili soon.
“Strict enforcement of model code of conduct and adherence to Election Commissioner of India (ECI) guidelines will be maintained. Covid-19 protocols will also be strictly followed during the bypoll,” said Jethwa.
“Prophylactic measures including seizure of illegal arms and liquor will be taken and the accused will be arrested for non-bailable offence,” he said.
Jethwa also directed the SP for stronger naka deployment and round-the-clock vigil with an intensified drive against anti-social and criminal elements through joint exercise, warrant execution and raids.
Meanwhile, the State unit of BJP alleged before the State Election Commissioner that ruling BJD is illegally pumping huge amount of money in the constituency with the help of police to influence the bypoll.
According to the allegation by BJP, recently a huge amount of money was carried through a vehicle to the constituency. As the vehicle met with an accident, the money was transferred to another vehicle escorted by police force.
The Opposition party has submitted the photos of the vehicle with its number plate carrying bundles of notes before the State Chief Election Commissioner. The party has demanded strict investigation to trace the source of the illegal fund and to bring the guilty to book.
“Due to growing fear of losing the by-election, the BJD is pumping in huge amounts of money in a bid to influence the voters. We demand police patrolling and surveillance teams be increased to ensure that the BJD does not become successful in its illegal activities in influencing the election,” said senior BJP Leader Manmohan Samal.