Srinagar, In the lead-up to the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for May 13, 2024, Indian security forces have intensified operations across Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), resulting in the arrest of over a dozen individuals in various districts.
According to Kashmir Media Service, extensive cordon and search operations were conducted by the troops in multiple regions including Shahsitar, Gursai, Sanai, Sheendara Surankote, and Mendhar in Poonch, as well as in areas of Rajouri, Kathua, and Samba districts. These operations have been coupled with aerial surveillance efforts to maintain strict security ahead of the polls. Additionally, two youths were detained in the Imamsahib area of South Kashmir’s Shopian district.
Security measures have been notably ramped up at polling stations throughout the region. Authorities have designated polling stations as either critical or non-critical, with critical locations receiving heightened security, including deployments of 12 to 15 armed personnel from both Indian paramilitary and police forces to ensure order during the voting process.