THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, March 21: Zonal IG of police of Palamu N K Singh is on a review spree for 3 districts, namely Latehar, Palamu and Garhwa, ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.
Polling for Palamu Lok Sabha’s seat is due on May 13. Garhwa district follows in line for the May 13 polling.
However, as Latehar district is part of the Chatra Lok Sabha constituency, polling is slated for May 20 here.
IG Narendra Kumar Singh is a no-nonsense officer whose mantra is ‘It’s never the other day to work if one can do it right now.’
The Jharkhand Story correspondent spoke to IG police today. Excerpts from the interview:
Q: You did a security audit of the Latehar police administration on Wednesday. What did you find there?
A: The SP (Anjani Anjan) and his team, although for the SP it is his maiden conduct of the Lok Sabha election, are doing fine there. We are here for further backup. Holding the Lok Sabha election is a challenge, and it becomes more of a challenge for districts like Latehar, whose geo terrain and topography are hard and difficult. I am confident my boys will do well.
Q: Will there be a security audit of Palamu and Garhwa, too?
A: As for Palamu, it is scheduled for today. I will be doing Garhwa this Friday.
Q: What about check posts in Latehar?
A: The SP has already set up 2 check posts here. They are interstate, but I understand Latehar needs 2 more interstate check posts.
Q: What about inter-district check posts?
A: Latehar has too many inter-district check posts, like with Palamu, Gumla, Lohardaga, Chatra, etc.
Q: What is your plan for zero casualty conduct during the Lok Sabha election?
A: I can’t reveal the plan, but my determination and resolution are to have zero casualties. There can’t be any compromise. All of us have to work hard and intelligently for it.
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Q: Lots of central military forces will be coming. What about their facilities here?
A: It will be well taken care of. We need to give them the best available ease.
Q: Naxals are down but not out. Is this?
A: There is a sea change in the naxal scenario. It is now in smaller groups. It has to be tactfully neutralised.
Q: Narcotics and liquor are a major issue every election.
A: Oh yes. Latehar seized poppy worth 35 lakhs of rupees only on Wednesday. Our assault on liquor and narcotics will be more ruthless.
Q: Liquor is a very pervasive issue. How do you know?
A: I tell you the ECI has asked for the source, mode, etc, of the illicit liquor. Suppose a consignment of liquor is seized at Harihurganj, then it is to be found out how it reaches Harihurganj without getting intercepted mid-way or en route. Liability for such a passage of liquor is to be established this time. It is not that a seizure is made and the chapter is closed. This time, its origin, manufacturing, bottling, packing, etc, will all be delved into seriously.
Q: Will you advise more care and caution at the interstate check posts?
A: There is an SoP of cops on duty wearing BP jackets at the interstate checkposts. There must not be any leniency to it.
Q: How confident are your boys and officials in this conduct of the Lok Sabha election?
A: We are confident but not complacent at all. Every day is a new day of challenge. Our boys and officials will prove their mettle.
