Kashmir districts implement weapon deposits, vehicle bans ahead of LS polls

SRINAGAR — With the Lok Sabha elections scheduled from April 19 to June 1, 2024, district administrations in Kashmir are taking proactive measures to ensure a smooth electoral process. Bandipora and Rajouri districts have issued directives concerning the deposit of weapons and the use of official vehicles during the election period.

In Bandipora, the District Administration has mandated that all civilians and serving or retired forces personnel possessing arms and ammunition on valid licenses must deposit them at the respective police stations within seven days. The move aims to enhance security and prevent potential misuse of weapons during the electoral process.

Additionally, printing presses in the district are required to clearly indicate the names and addresses of the printer and publisher on all election-related material, as directed by District Election Officer Shakeel-ul-Rehman.

Meanwhile, Rajouri District Magistrate Om Parkash Bhagat has issued a similar directive, urging civilians with licensed weapons to deposit them at the nearest police station within a week. This measure is aligned with efforts to maintain law and order and ensure transparent elections.

Additionally, printing presses in Rajouri have been instructed to comply with guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India, ensuring transparency in election-related communications.

Furthermore, in Bandipora, the District Magistrate has imposed a total ban on the use of official vehicles by political parties, candidates, or any individuals associated with election campaigns. This prohibition, effective immediately, aims to prevent the misuse of government resources for electoral purposes and promote fairness in the electoral process.

Authorities in both districts have emphasized strict adherence to these directives to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. Senior officials have been tasked with overseeing the implementation of these measures to ensure compliance.