May 19th 2024.
Recently, there was an unfortunate incident of violence at Khaliikote in Odisha's Ganjam district, leading to the death of a BJP worker. As a result, the police are now on high alert to prevent any further untoward incidents during the fifth phase of polling. This phase will cover five Parliamentary constituencies - Bargarh, Sundargarh, Bolangir, Kandhamal, and Aska - along with 35 Assembly seats on May 20.
During a press conference in Bhubaneswar, Director General of Police Arun Kumar Sarangi addressed the issue, stating that he had strongly warned all district Superintendents of Police against any instances of violence. He emphasized the zero-tolerance policy towards poll-related violence and stated that strict action will be taken against those responsible for any bloodshed or violent acts. Sarangi also instructed the officers to immediately arrest anyone involved in such incidents and submit chargesheets so that the accused can be punished promptly. He made it clear that any person or police officer neglecting their duty will also face consequences. The DGP expressed his hope that the upcoming fifth phase of polling will take place peacefully.
Sarangi also mentioned that the Odisha Police are closely monitoring the situation and will take stern action against any acts of violence. As many as 33,000 police personnel have been deployed for the fifth phase of polling. The voting will take place at 9,162 polling stations in 7,339 locations across the state. Out of these, 556 booths in Kandhamal Boudh, Bolangir, Bargarh, and some areas in Rourkela districts are considered Maoist-affected.
For the fifth phase of polling, the Odisha Police have deployed 47 Additional SPs, 88 DSPs, 236 Inspectors, 2,000 Sub Inspectors, and Assistant SI rank officials. In addition, 655 mobile patrolling parties, 257 flying squads, and 251 static surveillance teams have been set up. Quick reaction teams and swift action force have also been stationed in sensitive areas to prevent any untoward incidents.
The DGP also mentioned that adequate security arrangements have been made in the five Maoist-affected districts - Kandhamal, Boudh, Bolangir, Bargarh, and Rourkela. In central Odisha, a group of Maoists from Chhattisgarh has been camping in Kandhamal and Boudh districts for the past year. Recently, there was an exchange of fire in the Boudh area, resulting in the death of two Maoists. Prior to this, another divisional commander of the Maoist group was also neutralized. The police have intensified their operations against the Maoists in these areas for the past four months.
Sarangi also mentioned that 117 operational parties of CAPF and 38 units of Special Operation Group and District Voluntary Forces are working in the Maoist-affected areas for the fifth phase of polling. It is worth noting that the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Odisha are taking place simultaneously in four phases from May 13 to June 1. The results for both elections will be announced on June 4.
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