To ensure security during the Lok Sabha elections,scheduled in the city for May 13,the Chandigarh Police have directed weapon holders with a criminal past to deposit their arms at a police station or gun house by May 4. There are around 150 persons with private weapons who have been booked by the police. Senior Superintendent of Police Sudhanshu Srivastava said people released on bail,with a history of criminal offence or previously involved in rioting at any time especially during elections,have been directed to deposit their arms. We are following the guidelines of the Election Commission which state that people with a criminal past or involved in any offence should be directed to deposit their weapons. We have prepared a list. If such a person fails to comply with the orders,we would forcefully confiscate his or her weapon, the SSP said. Officials said law-abiding citizens can keep their weapons with them. The city has a different election environment and rigging on gunpoint never takes place. In some states,everybody has been asked to deposit their arms but in the city we have a different approach, the SSP added. People with no criminal record can also deposit their weapons with the police stations concerned or with gun houses near their residence. The gun houses are bound to inform the police about the weapons deposited with them. The officers have instructed the personnel and other investigating cells to immediately gather information and launch drives against anti-social elements holding illegal arms and ammunitions. We are keeping a close tab on the criminals. They can try to smuggle in illegal weapons to disrupt elections. Such criminals will be nabbed soon, the SSP said.
