Combing operations launched amid suspected naxal sightings around Karnataka-Kerala border
Udupi: Amid suspected Naxal sightings in and around the areas of Karnataka bordering Kerala, the police have launched combing operations in the neighbouring areas and made adequate arrangements for upcoming Lok Sabha elections, officials said on Sunday.
The general elections in Karnataka will be held in two phases on April 26 and May 7 for its 28 constituencies.
Speaking to PTI videos, Arun K, Superintendent of Police Udupi said that some days ago, there were suspected Naxal sightings in and around the Karnataka-Kerala border. However, around five-six years ago, there were no Naxal sightings on this side of Karnataka.
"We have coordinated with anti-Naxal force and have started combing operations in the neighbouring areas. We have started the anti-Naxal squads in the concerned district and are also trying to collect information from the local public regarding any Naxal activities," he said.
The officer further said it has been ensured that all the Naxal-affected polling booths will be given central paramilitary force protection on the day of polling.
"As of now, we don't expect any issues, but we have made adequate arrangements to ensure peaceful elections," he said.
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Make polling hours 6am-7pm for May 7 LS polls, Karnataka BJP urges EC citing heatwave
Bengaluru, May 3: Citing the ongoing heatwave in the state, Karnataka BJP on Friday petitioned the Election Commission with a request to modify the polling hours to the 6am-7pm period in the 14 parliamentary constituencies in the state that goes to polls on May 7.
Polling is currently scheduled to be held in the second phase in the state in 14 segments in the northern districts between 7am to 6pm on May 7.
"It has become hard to come out and vote between hours 10.00 to 17.00 due to uncontrollable heat. The average heat in those parts (north Karnataka) covering 14 parliamentary constituencies are between 37 and 42 degree (Celsius). The mercury is rising at an alarming level and it would become hard for the electors to come out and vote," BJP's petition said.
The petition highlighted the alarming rise in temperatures, which are expected to go beyond 40 degree Celsius, and also stated that the number of voters over the age of 40 is high and that they are vulnerable to the heatwave.
"To keep up the good spirit of voting, necessary action should be taken," the BJP petition urged the Election Commission, saying, "In this background, it is requested to modify the time of voting in the 14 parliamentary constituencies from 06.00 to 19.00 hours on May 7".
Polling was held between 7 am and 6 pm during Karnataka's first phase of the Lok Sabha polls in 14 constituencies on April 26.
