Initial stages of election incident-free in Coimbatore

With the scrutiny of nominations filed by candidates for the upcoming Assembly election completed on Tuesday, the initial stages of the exercise were incident-free in Coimbatore.

Officials attached to the Coimbatore City Police said all measures have been taken for the smooth conduct of election.

The city police have made nearly 600 persons, such as history-sheeters and those who create public nuisance, to execute bonds, assuring good behaviour.

The force, led by City Police Commissioner N. Kannan, took out flag marches in different parts of the city to instil confidence among the public and ensure smooth polling.

Officials said that no incidents of violence or clashes between supporters of contestants were reported in the city since the date for the election was announced.

Election observers were largely impressed with the arrangements and the law and order situation in the run-up to the polls, they said.

The City Police are monitoring live feed from surveillance cameras from the surroundings of the offices of Returning Officers for four constituencies falling within their jurisdiction — Coimbatore South, Coimbatore North, Singanallur and Kavundampalayam.

This enabled the police to decide on the deployment of force during the filing of nominations, when supporters normally accompany candidates, and scrutiny of nominations.  

“The arrangement will continue to function till April 9, the last date for withdrawal of nominations,” said an officer.