Srinagar, Mar 17: The Director General of Police (DGP) R R Swain Sunday said that they are in touch with the central government to determine the necessary security forces for ensuring safe and peaceful elections. The goal is to utilize these forces effectively to create a secure environment for upcoming LokSabha polls, he said.
Talking to reporters on the side-lines of the Public Grievance Redressal Programme (PGRP) in Doda,, DGP Swain said that Election Commission of India has given us clear instructions to conduct elections freely and fairly in J&K.
“Our aim is to provide security and a fair platform for candidates and voters. We are in touch with the central government to meet the required security needs. Additional forces will be deployed as necessary. Our commitment is to use available forces optimally to ensure a safe electoral process,” he said.
DGP Swain said that they will provide a safe and secured environment to voters, candidates and agents of political parties as it is our duty and responsibility.
When asked about when terrorism would end in Jammu and Kashmir, the DGP clarified that the focus should be on understanding the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.
“It is difficult to predict an exact end date for terrorism. Instead, we are implementing a comprehensive strategy with a roadmap to address the issue,” he said.
DGP Swain said they have a clear strategy in place, with a roadmap that we are committed to following without wavering. While I cannot promise a specific date for the end of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, we are determined to steadily eliminate it.
Regarding Special Police Officers (SPOs), the DGP Swain assured that they are working to provide them with all possible benefits. He expressed the intention to advocate for more benefits for SPOs in the future, emphasizing their importance to the police force.
“Taking care of SPOs and those who sacrifice their lives in the line of duty is a priority for the police,” he added.
The LokSabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be conducted in five phases with voting in each of the five parliamentary constituencies beginning from April 19.
