3,500 cops to be deployed for Ottapidaram bypoll

The bypoll is scheduled on May 19. After reviewing the preparedness, the DGP said a total of 3,500 police personnel would be deployed to ensure peaceful polling. A total of 257 polling stations have been set up at 132 locations across the constituency. As many as 63 flying squad teams and 27 static surveillance teams have been deployed to prevent any violation.

To ensure adequate security, he said three companies of paramilitary force personnel would be deployed. Besides, six companies of Tamil Nadu special police would also be engaged.

Mobile patrolling by four-wheelers and two-wheelers would also be intensified to prevent distribution of cash to voters and other violations of model code of conduct. Single polling booths are located at 78 places, where limited security force would be in place. Security would be strengthened at locations with two and more booths, officials said.

Check posts have been set up at 18 locations. Another 12 check posts have been set up along borders of the district to check vehicles round the clock.