Arunachal: Flying Squads tighten checks in Itanagar ahead of elections

In preparation for the upcoming Assembly and Parliamentary elections in Arunachal Pradesh, strict monitoring by flying squads and paramilitary forces has intensified in and around the capital city of Itanagar.

Reports from the ground indicate a significant seizure of cash, alcohol, and weapons, including locally crafted swords known as daos. These items, often associated with electoral malpractices and violence, have been confiscated by the vigilant security forces during their operations across the region.

Meanwhile in Itanagar, in anticipation of the upcoming simultaneous elections to the Parliament and Legislative Assembly in Arunachal Pradesh, the Office of the District Magistrate has issued a stern directive regarding the deposition of firearms. The District Magistrate has mandated that all firearms licenses issued from Capital Itanagar be deposited at the nearest police station within seven days.

With the Election Commission of India (ECI) having announced the election schedule effective March 20, 2024, and the Model Code of Conduct coming into force, the District Magistrate's office has taken proactive measures to ensure public safety and security during the electoral process.

Previously, a directive was issued under Memo.No. RO/ITA/MCC-01/2024 dated March 17, 2024, instructing all concerned individuals to deposit their firearms at the nearest police stations. However, according to reports from the Police Department, the compliance rate with this directive has been notably low, raising concerns regarding law enforcement and public safety.

In response to this situation, the recent order mandates that all firearms licenses issued from Capital Itanagar be deposited at the nearest police stations within seven days from the date of issue of the order. Failure to comply with this directive will result in the cancellation of firearms licenses without further notice.