The public holiday on February 5, 2025 has been declared in observance of the Assembly Elections by the Delhi Government. This particular holiday will be operative in all government offices, local authorities, and PSUs in the city. The choice is with the objective to guarantee that all registered voter-employees are provided with the time to vote relatively unhindered by normal work obligations.
Ensuring Voter Participation
The declaration of a public holiday is a tactical response in an attempt to increase voter turnout during Assembly elections. By granting a day off to government employees, the administration is eliminating one of the major hurdles to voter participation, thereby reinforcing its commitment to a robust democratic process. The government has also desired that this exercise will also be an incentive to citizens to exercise their franchise and in that way influence the development of the future governance of Delhi.
Robust Security Measures Implemented
Simultaneously with the announcement of the public holiday, security measures in Delhi have been greatly enhanced in preparation for the elections. In Delhi police and with the cooperation of other paramilitary agencies, preparations have been intensified to guarantee a completely free fair and peaceful electoral activity. According to Special CP Devesh Chandra Srivastava, over 150 paramilitary companies and more than 30,000 police officers will be deployed in the city during the elections. This robust security presence is expected to deter any potential law and order issues that might disrupt the voting process.
Sensitive Polling Booths Under Watch
According to Delhi Police, nearly 3,000 polling stations have been marked as sensitive, which demand extra care. These sensitive booths will be closely monitored using advanced surveillance technology, including drones, to ensure the safety and security of both voters and polling staff. On top of air policing, further police and Quick Reaction Teams (QRT) will be deployed at the important locations mentioned. The establishment of QRT units is anticipated to facilitate timely response in case of any security breaches or disturbances in the course of the electoral process.
Inter-State Coordination for Enhanced Security
Realizing the possibility of election-related complications, an inter-state coordination meeting took place in January. Chaired by Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora, the meeting assembled the top law enforcement officials from neighbouring states like Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. Discussions at the meeting focused on anti-terror measures, border security, and strategies to handle any cross-border security threats. The collaborative effort among the states is aimed at ensuring a comprehensive security framework that will safeguard the electoral process in Delhi.
Crackdown on Illegal Activities Prior to Elections
In the runup to the polls, Delhi Police has stepped up efforts to control all unlawful activities that might disrupt the integrity of the voting system. Officials have announced seizure of more than 1 lakh liter of illicit liquor, and arrests of more than 1,300 persons under different legal acts. As a demonstration of commitment to police, authorities have also seized contraband worth more than Rs 77.9 crores. These decisive measures are also part of a push to restore law and order in this critical time.
Since the introduction of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) on 7 January police have taken over 1 000 reports of alleged violations. During this period, more than 33,000 people have been arrested under various laws, and significant quantities of illegal firearms and ammunition have been seized. These actions underscore the administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the electoral process is conducted in a safe and orderly manner.
A Comprehensive Approach to Election Preparedness
The combined tactic of enabling voter participation through the public holiday and providing rigorous security arrangements reflects the Government’s integrated plan of action in readiness for the Assembly Poll. Addressing both supply chain and security issues, the government of Delhi in India is already moving with a vision to create an atmosphere conducive to democracy to grow.
When February 5 comes around, the Delhi inhabitants are preparing to cast their ballots in an election that will be closely guarded and professionally conducted. Actions of the government and law enforcement agencies remind us of the pivotal value of democracy and the shared obligation that each citizens must fulfill to participate in the governance of the city.
“Stay updated with the latest news and insights – follow us at YPBB News on X for real-time updates and exclusive stories!”
