Srinagar, Nov 09 (KNS): Ahead of the crucial panchayat polls, Governor Satya Pal Malik today reviewed the security situation at a high-level meeting in Jammu.
The meeting was attended by senior civil, police, central armed police, army, and state and central intelligence agencies.
Sources told Kashmir News Service (KNS) that after obtaining sector-wise assessments of the prevailing security situation and arising challenges, the Governor Satya Paul Malik emphasized the crucial importance of maintaining a sustained close watch on the ground situation, and appreciated the sustained real time coordination and synergy between the security forces and the civil administration.
Sources said that the meeting discussed security arrangements made for the smooth conduct of the forthcoming Panchayat elections and the need of a safe environment for the elections. “Considering the pattern of attempts to disturb law and order in the past few days, the Governor especially stressed the need of a heightened vigil and ensuring the safety of protected persons and the security of all-important establishments and installations,” sources quoting Governor said
Sources maintained that Governor also discussed about the issues relating to the welfare of the police personnel and their families. Lauding the commitment of security forces towards their duty and bravery and sacrifices made by them during discharge of their duties, governor stressed that "it is our responsibility to take care of welfare of our police personnel and their families.
Sources said that strategy of holding Panchayat elections in peaceful manner was also discussed during the meeting.
Sources said that the prevailing scenario at IB and LoC was also on the agenda. “Challenges for the counter-infiltration grid during winter was also discussed during the meeting,” sources maintained.
Sources said that the Governor directed the officers that deployment plans should be worked out and fine-tuned in such a way that foolproof security is provided for these elections.
It is to be mention here that the panchayat elections in the state will be held in nine phases starting from November 17.
The panchayat elections will be held on November 17, 20, 24, 27, 29, December 1, 4, 8 and 11. Counting will take place on the day of polling. Votes will be cast using ballot paper, Shaleen Kabra, J&K Chief Electoral Officer had said. (KNS)