Odisha: NSG, state police officials discuss security arrangements

Keeping in mind the expected frequent visits of VVIPs for election campaigning due to simultaneous general and legislative elections, a high level meeting of State Police, National Security Guards (NSG), Special Protection Group(SPG) and Intelligence Bureau (IB) officials was held here on Tuesday to discuss the security arrangements.

The meeting was chaired by the Odisha DGP Dr. RP Sharma. Several senior police officials attended the meeting via video conference.

Senior officers from IB, NSG and SPG apprised the officers in the field through a power point presentation about the possibilities of multi-faceted security threats to VVIPs during campaigning.

IB and NSG experts also suggested several precautionary and preparatory measures during the visit of VVIPs and other dignitaries.

Keeping in view the chances of anti-social activities which may disturb the election process, the district SPs were adequately sensitized.

"Since there will be frequent visit of VVIPs and other several Political Parties functionaries during the process of election, there should be effective and unobtrusive security arrangement,"Sharma said.

Prime Minister of India, Union Ministers and other senior leaders from different national political parties, who are NSG and SPG protectees, are expected to visit the state. This will require adequate and full proof security arrangements.

Election Commission of India (ECI) on Sunday announced the schedule for the 17th Lok Sabha election, which will be held in seven phases beginning April 11. The final phase of voting will take place on May 19, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Polls will be held in four phases in Odisha. The result of the legislative elections will be announced on May 23, along with Lok Sabha elections.