With polling for Tripura’s Village Committees approaching, the State Election Commission has finalised a series of measures covering security, campaign conduct, voter facilities and election monitoring across the TTAADC areas.
A major component of the security plan is the deployment of **74 companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)**. The forces will be deployed ahead of polling and will continue their duties during and after the voting process.
Security personnel have already begun area domination exercises and flag marches in sensitive locations, officials said.
The election authorities reviewed the arrangements during two meetings held on Wednesday. The senior-level meeting, conducted in hybrid mode, was attended by the Director General of Police, IG (Law & Order), District Magistrates, District Election Officers and Superintendents of Police.
The meeting took stock of the security situation, protection of voters, restrictions on campaigning and mechanisms for monitoring the conduct of the polls.
District administrations and security agencies have been asked to maintain a level playing field for candidates and political parties during the campaign. They have also been directed to ensure that the normal law-and-order situation is not affected.
Ensuring unhindered voting has been given particular emphasis, with officials instructed to prevent fear, intimidation or obstruction at polling stations. The movement of authorised representatives of candidates and political parties will also be facilitated on polling day.
The Commission has separately announced a **48-hour silence period** ahead of polling. Restrictions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and the Representation of the People Act, 1951, will be effective from **4 pm on September 26 until 6 am on September 28**.
No campaigning or electioneering will be allowed during the silence period. Restrictions will also apply to content capable of influencing voters on television, radio, cable networks, social media, digital platforms and print media within polling areas.
Media organisations have been advised against carrying debates, discussions, opinion polls or other material that could influence voters during the restricted period. Violations will invite action under applicable laws.
The Commission has also regulated loudspeaker use, allowing it only between **6 am and 10 pm**. The measure is intended to minimise inconvenience to children, senior citizens and persons with special needs.
Meanwhile, district authorities have been directed to ensure basic amenities at polling stations, including drinking water, electricity and adequate furniture.
Election observers appointed for the Village Committee polls were also briefed on Wednesday. Their responsibilities include monitoring the election process in their assigned areas, ensuring compliance with electoral rules and maintaining impartiality.
The observers will submit detailed reports to the State Election Commission after polling, officials said.
