Chennai: With the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections scheduled for April 23, the Election Commission and the state police have intensified security arrangements across all 234 constituencies to ensure a peaceful, incident-free polling process.
In a major preventive initiative, the Tamil Nadu Police have identified and are closely monitoring nearly 20,000 history-sheeters and habitual offenders, commonly referred to as “rowdies”, across the state. These individuals have been categorised into four distinct groups, A+, A, B, and C, based on the severity of their criminal record and perceived threat.
According to senior police officials, Chennai alone accounts for around 4,000 such individuals, many of whom are currently absconding. Authorities fear that some of them may attempt to re-enter their local areas during the election period to engage in unlawful activities, disrupt polling, or influence voters.
To counter this, police teams have launched extensive intelligence-gathering and search operations over the past few days. Around 100 individuals have already been traced and detained as part of these efforts.
Special teams have been deployed across all 38 districts to track down absconding offenders and maintain strict surveillance over those identified as potential troublemakers.
In addition to enforcement measures, the police are also adopting a reform-oriented approach. Officials stated that individuals willing to mend their ways may be given an opportunity for rehabilitation, including the issuance of “good conduct certificates” under certain conditions.
As part of legal safeguards, authorities are planning to initiate proceedings under Sections 107, 109, and 110 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, which empower the police to take preventive action against individuals likely to disturb public peace. Suspects may be required to execute bonds assuring good behaviour during the election period.
A senior police officer emphasised that Tamil Nadu has historically witnessed largely peaceful Assembly elections, with minimal law-and-order disturbances.
He said, “We are taking all necessary precautions to maintain that record. Our focus is on prevention, vigilance, and swift action wherever required.”
With multi-layered security measures in place, authorities remain confident that the upcoming elections will be conducted smoothly, ensuring the safety of voters and the integrity of the democratic process.
(IANS)
