In anticipation of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, District Collector Dr. Suhas Diwase has taken proactive steps to ensure the smooth conduct of the electoral process with utmost peace and fairness. Dr. Diwase has issued prohibitory orders for areas within a 100-meter radius of polling stations in Baramati, Pune, Maval, and Shirur Lok Sabha constituencies.
Scope of Prohibitory Orders: The preventive orders, issued under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, entail restrictions on the functioning of various establishments and activities within the designated area. Commercial establishments, pavilions, shops, mobile devices, cordless phones, pagers, wireless phones, loudspeakers, hawkers, electrical equipment, and display of signs are among the items covered by the order.
Implementation Schedule: The prohibitory orders will come into effect on May 7 in Baramati and on May 13 in Pune, Maval, and Shirur Lok Sabha constituencies. These measures are aimed at maintaining order and security during the crucial electoral process.
Restricted Access: From 6 am until the conclusion of the voting process, individuals who are not eligible to vote will be barred from entering within a 100-meter radius of the polling stations. This restriction applies strictly to ensure the sanctity of the voting process and prevent any potential disruptions.
Legal Consequences: Dr. Diwase has emphasized that any violation of the prohibitory orders will be met with legal repercussions as per the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code. Strict enforcement of these measures is essential to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
Objective: The primary objective behind implementing these restrictive measures is to safeguard the rights of voters and create a conducive environment for conducting free and fair elections. By ensuring security and orderliness around polling stations, the administration aims to facilitate a smooth and transparent electoral process.
As the election date approaches, the administration remains committed to upholding the democratic values and principles integral to the electoral process. These preventive measures underscore the authorities’ dedication to ensuring the integrity and fairness of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
