Security Tightened in Gomati as Three Village Committee Seats Go to Fresh Polls

GOMATI: Authorities in Gomati district have introduced a series of restrictions ahead of fresh polling and re-polling in three Village Committee seats on October 3.

District Magistrate and Collector Rinku Lather, IAS

The measures were ordered by District Magistrate and Collector Rinku Lather, IAS, under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023. The administration said the restrictions are aimed at preventing disturbances, voter intimidation and other forms of electoral malpractice.

Voting will be held from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM at polling locations covering Gamaria Village Committee in Matabari R.D. Block and Paharpur Village Committee in Amarpur R.D. Block.

As part of the security arrangements, gatherings involving more than five persons carrying weapons or potentially offensive objects have been prohibited. Restrictions have also been placed on public gatherings and loudspeaker use within the specified areas and a 200-metre zone around polling stations.

Authorities have additionally restricted groups of two or more vehicles or motorcycles travelling together. Security checkpoints have been established along the Udaipur–Amarpur highway to monitor vehicle movement during the polling period.

The administration has clarified that the restrictions are not intended to stop normal civilian activities. Election personnel, police, CAPF personnel and authorised media workers are exempted while carrying out their duties.

Voters with valid election identification documents can travel to polling stations under the conditions specified in the order, including restrictions on vehicle parking near polling centres.

Regular office work, educational activities, market operations and public passenger transport have also been exempted. Religious and social events can continue subject to the conditions mentioned in the order.

The prohibitory measures took effect at 6:00 PM on October 2 and will continue until 6:00 AM on October 4. Authorities have warned that violations may result in prosecution under Section 223 of the BNS, 2023.