The Punjab Police has announced robust security measures to ensure a peaceful and transparent voting process across the province on Sunday, including Lahore.
Out of the total 2,599 polling stations in Punjab, authorities have identified 419 as highly sensitive and 1,081 as sensitive, warranting heightened security measures. In response, more than 35,000 officers and officials, as well as female police personnel, have been deployed to oversee election security.
Punjab Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar has assured the public of the police force's readiness to uphold peace and safety during the electoral process.
"The Punjab Police is ready for a peaceful, transparent and safe conduct of by-elections" he asserted, adding that security has been significantly increased across the province, including Lahore.
The IGP emphasized that the police force will provide full security coverage to voters, polling staff, and citizens. Additional personnel, including units such as the Dolphin Force and Quick Response Teams, have been strategically stationed at sensitive polling stations to preempt any untoward incidents.
He also underscored the importance of adhering to the Election Commission of Pakistan's code of conduct. "We will ensure proper implementation of the ECP's code of conduct."
He reminded the people that strict measures, including the enforcement of Section 144, were in place to deter any illegal activities such as the display of arms, aerial firing, fights, or sabotage of the electoral process.
With these comprehensive security arrangements in place, authorities are optimistic about conducting the by-elections in a peaceful, transparent, and safe manner, ensuring the integrity of the democratic process in Punjab.