AP SEC Reviews Panchayat Election Preparedness

Andhra Pradesh State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha has reviewed election preparedness and security arrangements for the forthcoming gram panchayat polls, as well as pending urban local body elections.

Punetha met officials at the Tirupati Collectorate. Senior police officers from 12 districts attended, and discussions focused on maintaining peace and security during the elections.

Speaking to the media afterwards, the SEC said there had been contests and election-related issues in areas from Palnadu to Rayalaseema during recent polls. He had held discussions with police superintendents from 12 districts and urged them to remain especially vigilant during the panchayat elections.

Candidates who require an escort to file their nominations can request one, Punetha said. He added that special security would be provided to candidates if police receive information about a threat of attack.

The Panchayat Raj Department has also issued new guidelines on incentives for villages that elect their panchayats unanimously. Villages with populations of up to 5,000 will receive ₹15 lakh, while those with populations between 5,000 and 10,000 will be given ₹25 lakh. Punetha said unanimous elections could take place in 15 to 20 per cent of villages.

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Pavan Bandari

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I am content writer with six years of experience in entertainment and politics besides other modules as well.