Kozhikode: With the Maoist threat, heightened security measures are in place for the upcoming elections in the district. A total of 141 booths have been identified as problematic, with 120 located in the Vadakara Lok Sabha constituency and 21 in the Kozhikode constituency. Additionally, 43 booths in the Vadakara constituency are under direct Maoist threat.

To ensure the safety and security of the electoral process, 2289 police personnel and 472 Central Armed Police Force personnel have been deployed. Their presence will be particularly felt in 138 polling booths.

Collector Snehil Kumar Singh emphasized the robust security arrangements in place to facilitate safe and peaceful polling. As part of these efforts, a prohibitory order under CRPC 144 has been issued from 6 pm on Wednesday until 6 am on April 27.

Special security measures will be implemented in the Vadakara constituency, particularly in the 43 booths facing Maoist threats. Each station will have five vehicles patrolling continuously on election day, along with a dedicated special striking force.

The Thamarassery DYSP M P Vinod informed that the Central Police Force, local police, and Thunderbolt will together ensure security during polling.

The recent presence of Maoists in Mananthavady, Thalappuzha has heightened concerns. The group has discouraged locals from participating in the elections, labeling it futile.  Two of them were seen carrying weapons. Following a dispute with villagers, they returned to the forest. Two men descended into the settlement area while the others remained at the summit.