As the Lok Sabha elections draw near for the Pune and Shirur constituencies scheduled on May 13, local authorities are leaving no stone unturned to guarantee a seamless and peaceful polling experience for citizens. In this endeavor, a crucial directive has been issued to all commercial establishments within 100 meters of the polling stations: they are to remain closed on the day of the elections.
This directive, spearheaded by Pune’s Joint Commissioner of Police, Pravin Pawar, serves a twofold purpose. Firstly, it aims to uphold public tranquility and safeguard both property and peace during the electoral process. Secondly, it seeks to ensure that voters can exercise their democratic rights without any hindrance, intimidation, or undue influence.
Under the jurisdiction of the Pune Police Commissionerate, which encompasses various areas including Wadgaonsheri, Shivajinagar, Kothrud, Parvati, Pune Cantonment, and Kasba Peth, along with Shirur and Hadapsar assembly constituencies within the Pune Lok Sabha constituency, this directive is poised to affect a substantial number of establishments.
The scope of the directive is significant, encompassing 2017 polling booths in the Pune Lok Sabha constituency and 708 polling booths in the Shirur constituency. Implemented under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973, this measure serves to deter any potential misuse of the vicinity around polling stations for activities such as campaigning, which could disrupt the electoral process.
Commencing from 12 midnight on May 12 until the culmination of the polling process, these precautionary measures are meticulously crafted to foster a secure and conducive environment for voters. By creating a buffer zone free from external influences, authorities aim to ensure that citizens can cast their votes with confidence and without any undue interference.
As the electoral preparations gather momentum, authorities are actively seeking cooperation from the public and stakeholders alike. It is imperative that everyone contributes to the successful execution of the Lok Sabha elections in Pune and Shirur constituencies. Through collective effort and adherence to these proactive measures, the focus remains steadfast on facilitating a fair and transparent electoral process that upholds the fundamental principles of democracy.
