Northeast Desk, 13th April: In response to the recent ethnic violence and to ensure that all citizens can exercise their right to vote, 29 special polling stations are being established for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Manipur. These stations will accommodate approximately 5,000 displaced individuals currently residing in camps.
Polling officials have confirmed that these arrangements are being made following instructions from the central government. Kiran Kumar, the Deputy Commissioner of Imphal West, stated that these special polling stations, some of which will be set up in relief camps, aim to facilitate voting for all displaced individuals. Kumar also mentioned that relative peace has returned to the Northeast state in recent months, following the violent clashes.
In anticipation of the elections, security measures have been heightened, with vulnerable polling stations being overseen by the Central Armed Police Force. The number of special polling stations is expected to increase in response to the state’s current circumstances, and all activities are being closely monitored.