State election panel plays police,orders execution of arrest warrants

“These non-bailable warrants have been issued by courts in various cases and at other times. But these have not been executed by the police,and the criminals are still at large. In election time,the police administration is under the Election Commission. We have issued orders to the police to execute these NBWs since these criminals are a threat to free and fair elections,” Chief Electoral Officer Vijay Dev told Newsline.

On Monday,six people with NBWs against them were arrested. At least 131 people were placed under preventive detention. By Tuesday,the count of NBWs had dropped from 222 to 55.

Election officials said people whose presence could adversely affect the election process and disrupt law and order would be taken to task.

“Those under preventive detention are people who have been identified as criminals,who have a history and tendency to disrupt peace. Binding-down procedures have been laid down,with a bond and surety and an undertaking that they will not indulge in any nefarious activity,” Dev said.