Odisha CEO Asserts Zero Tolerance for Violence Ahead of Phase III Elections

Bhubaneswar: With the Phase III elections in Odisha fast approaching, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Nikunja Bihari Dhal has issued a stern warning against any form of violence, intimidation, or threats to voters and candidates during the polls.

Addressing the media, Dhal emphasized the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) commitment to ensuring free and fair polling. He stated, “Pre-poll violence has been reported from some places. ECI has made it clear that there is absolutely no tolerance for any form of violence in this celebration of democracy.”

With the polls scheduled for May 25 covering six Lok Sabha and 42 Assembly seats in Odisha, Dhal urged political parties to uphold the principles of democracy and refrain from resorting to violence. He stressed the importance of maintaining peace and order to facilitate a smooth electoral process.

In efforts to ensure a violence-free environment during the elections, Dhal revealed that 121 Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) teams have been deployed across various constituencies. These teams will play a crucial role in maintaining law and order and safeguarding the electoral process.

The deployment of CAPF teams includes strategic allocations across different Lok Sabha constituencies. For instance, constituencies such as Sambalpur, Angul, Keonjhar, and others have received a significant presence of CAPF teams to ensure effective security measures.

As Odisha gears up for Phase III elections, Dhal encouraged voters to exercise their franchise responsibly and participate in the democratic process. With approximately 94.48 lakh electors across the six parliamentary constituencies and 42 assembly segments, the upcoming polls hold immense significance for the state’s electoral landscape.