Tamenglong district election officer on Saturday asked all the licensed arm holders to deposit their arms to the nearest police station, cautioning that failing to do so may invite legal action against the arm holder to the extent of revoking the license.
The deputy commissioner and returning officer was speaking to the media persons at his office chamber in mini secretariat Tamenglong. A press statement was also issued later.
He said that the district administration has geared up for the upcoming general election to Lok Sabha with the announcement of schedule. It is extremely crucial that district administration ensures a free and fair electoral process, he stressed.
To ensure free and fair election, the district administration will conduct checks and take up all necessary measures in place as per the Election Commission of India, he said.
“Your participation in this election is pivotal. So, as you are aware of the various mechanisms in place to safeguard the integrity of our democracy, I would like to appeal to all the good people of this district to refrain from any illegal practices that are against the principles of free and fair election,” he said.
He reminded that under Sec 171B of IPC, any person giving or accepting any gratification in cash or kind during the election process with a view to induce a person his electoral rights is punishable with imprisonment up to 1 year or fine or both.
Under Section 171C of IPC, any person who threatens any candidate or elector or any other person, with injury of any kind, is punishable with imprisonment up to 1 year or fine or both, he added.
He further informed that Flying Squads (FS) and Static Surveillance Team (SST) have been activated in the district to register cases against any kinds of illegal electoral practices, he said.
Citizens are encouraged to participate by informing through toll-free no. 1950 or through CVIGIL App about any violation of model code of conduct or any other illegal conducts during the electoral process, he said.
In pursuance to the directive of Election Commission of India, he appealed to all that anybody carrying a cash of Rs. 50,000 and above during the electioneering exercise without proper explanation on the source and end use of cash shall be liable to seizure by the Flying Squad/Static Surveillance Team.
He said Vehicle owners/drivers are directed to keep Registration Certificate (RC) Book and Driving license with them all the time failing which necessary action under Motor Vehicle Act will be taken by authorities.
