Restrictions Imposed for Pune Teachers’, Graduates’ Polls

Political workers barred from staying in constituencies where they are not voters; restrictions on weapons, electronic devices and commercial establishments near polling stations

Pimpri Chinchwad : With polling for the Pune Division Teachers’ and Graduates’ Legislative Council constituencies scheduled for October 23 and vote counting on October 27, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate has issued a series of prohibitory orders to ensure peaceful and smooth conduct of the election process.

A total of 20 polling stations and 35 booths will be set up within the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate limits.

Under the orders, political persons and those associated with political parties will not be allowed to stay or reside in a Legislative Council constituency where they are not registered voters, after the end of campaigning until the completion of polling.

Restrictions on Weapons

Under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, licensed weapon holders have been prohibited from possessing or carrying firearms within the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate limits. Exemptions granted by the scrutiny committee will not permit licensed weapon holders to carry firearms during any election-related programme.

Shops Within 100 Metres to Remain Closed

Commercial shops, restaurants, roadside stalls and other establishments within a 100-metre radius of polling stations and counting centres must remain closed during the relevant process. Essential services have been exempted from this restriction.

Carrying weapons or firearms inside polling stations and their surrounding premises will also be prohibited, except for government personnel performing their lawful duties.

Ban on Mobile Phones and Electronic Devices

The police have also prohibited the use of or carrying of mobile phones, laptops and other electronic devices inside polling stations and their premises. Officials and personnel on election duty will be exempted from this restriction.

Police Joint Commissioner Dr Shashikant Mahavarkar said that anyone violating the prohibitory orders would be liable for action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

The restrictions have been imposed with the objective of maintaining law and order and ensuring that polling and counting take place peacefully.