Police Observer Assesses Election Readiness in N & M Andaman 

Tarun Karthick

Port Blair, 11 April 2024

Mr. Ravi Joseph, IPS, the Police Observer for the Lok Sabha General Election – 2024 in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Parliamentary Constituency, undertook a meticulous assessment of readiness for the upcoming polls in the North and Middle Andaman District.

Embarking on his inspection, Mr. Ravi Joseph commenced his visit in the Rangat Tehsil, scrutinising polling stations nestled in remote areas on April 9, 2024. His commitment to ensuring a seamless electoral process was evident as he traversed through these outlying regions.

Continuing his comprehensive evaluation, Mr. Ravi Joseph proceeded to the Mayabunder Tehsil on April 10, 2024. Here, he meticulously inspected remote polling stations, gauging their preparedness for the impending election. His visit culminated in a pivotal meeting held at the conference hall of the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, N&MA, Mayabunder.

This crucial gathering was attended by key figures including Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, Superintendent of Police, N&MA District, alongside the Deputy Commissioner and other Nodal officers. Ms. Khandelwal provided an in-depth overview of the extensive preparations underway for the forthcoming election.

Key discussions encompassed a wide array of vital aspects, ranging from the deployment of police personnel and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to strategies concerning picketing, area patrolling, and sea patrolling. Additionally, meticulous vehicle checks and ground-level communication testing at each Polling Station were underscored as essential elements of the preparedness plan. Ensuring fire safety measures and assessing network availability for mobile connectivity were also emphasized.

Furthermore, Mr. Ravi Joseph received a comprehensive briefing on the robust measures taken against defaulters as preventive actions to uphold law and order in the district until the inception of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

Mr. Ravi Joseph’s diligent assessment underscores the commitment of authorities towards ensuring a smooth and fair electoral process in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Parliamentary Constituency for the General Election – 2024.