Focus on free and fair elections in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: A slew of steps have been taken in Odisha to ensure free and fair elections in the State. Till now, non-bailable warrant has been issued against 13,228 persons while 54,204 persons have been detained by police in the State.

According to sources, the enforcement officials have so far seized 228 illegal weapons, 1433 kg explosive materials, 1,26000 litre liquor. Besides, the flying squads and other surveillance teams formed by the election watchdog here, have so far seized cash worth Rs 2.93 crore.

Moreover, the Odisha Election Commission has opened a control room and launched a helpline number to enable the public to report poll related complaints.

A total of 806 calls have been registered so far by the control room while 14, 902 calls have been recorded in the helpline number. The concerned officials are reportedly taking steps on priority basis to address the complaints.

Earlier, prior to the commencement of the polls, police had urged arms licence holders to deposit their weapons. As many as 5,165 licensed weapons have been deposited with district administrations across the State.