In a significant development ahead of the Chhattisgarh Assembly elections, the residents of 40 Maoist-affected villages in Bastar district will participate in the electoral process for the first time in four decades. Overcoming the challenges posed by the historically unsafe conditions, the Election Commission has initiated the reopening of 120 polling stations in these villages on Saturday, according to media reports.
These Maoist-affected areas, once considered too perilous for polling, have witnessed a transformation in the past five years with the establishment of more than 60 security force camps. The continuous efforts to establish dominance in these regions have now rendered them safe for conducting the voting process. In response to the Maoist organization's election boycott announcement, the Election Commission has undertaken the election process in the area with heightened vigilance.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sundarraj P, overseeing the security preparations in Bastar, highlighted the meticulous planning to ensure a systematic election process. He emphasized the commitment to re-establish polling stations that were closed or shifted due to Maoist issues, aiming to minimize the distance between voters and polling stations.
Regarding the deployment of security forces, IGP Sundarraj maintained a discreet stance, citing security reasons. However, he mentioned the presence of various specialized forces, including DRG, STF, Cobra, CRPF, ITBP, and local police, working in coordination. A comprehensive security plan has been devised and is being implemented by the district administration and local police.
Efforts are also underway to conduct election-related proceedings in a highly organized manner. A conference has been organized for voters in the area, covering aspects from blockades to area dominance and patrolling arrangements. The IGP expressed confidence that the strengthened system would ensure a well-organized and systematic election process on November 7.
