ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Sunday expressed concern over reports of presence of armed men in various constituencies during the by-elections in 20 constituencies of Punjab on Sunday, July 17 and directed the concerned authorities to take immediate necessary action.
Meanwhile, according to media reports, in a decision taken last night due to tensions, the Election Commission demanded the deployment of the army in five of the 20 constituencies, including four in Lahore and one in Multan.
In a letter to the Chief Secretary Punjab and the Chief of Police, the ECP said that it had come to its notice that there were armed men in various constituencies, including Lahore. There is a risk of being affected.
The letter said that it was also reported that some notable people were planning to bring in miscreants from other areas / provinces to spread violence and panic on the day of polling, adding that such criminal activities were acceptable at any cost. Are not.
The letter added that the presence of armed men could be an obstacle to the peaceful conduct of the elections and the voters, as well as a violation of the Electoral Code of Conduct.
In its letter, the ECP has asked the provincial administration and law enforcement agencies to take notice of such criminal activities, instructing them to immediately arrest such miscreants and prevent them from entering the constituencies. Take timely action.
The letter further said that any written instruction from the Election Commission to the administration or the police would be provided immediately.
On the other hand, Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, who chaired a meeting of the ECP yesterday to review the arrangements for the by-elections, spoke on the phone with the Chief Secretary, Inspector General of Police and senior officials of the concerned agencies. He asked them to ensure a peaceful atmosphere during the elections.
The ECP reminded the authorities that displaying all types of weapons is prohibited in any constituency and no person, candidate or party worker is allowed to display weapons.
The ECP has directed the Provincial Election Commissioner Punjab, all District Returning Officers, Returning Officers and District Monitoring Officers to take action against any miscreant during polling and preparation of polling results if any miscreant spoils the electoral environment. Inform the law enforcement agencies in writing in accordance with the Constitution and the law and ensure strict action.
The Election Commission has also asked the Interior Ministry to increase the additional personnel of the Quick Response Force and the flag march during the by-elections.
Meanwhile, in view of possible threats and apprehensions of violence during the upcoming by-elections, the ECP demanded that troops be deployed outside polling stations in four constituencies in Lahore and one in Multan.
The Election Commission said that the deployment of Rangers had been agreed upon earlier but in view of recent reports, the threat of unrest and violence has increased.
