Cachar Administration enforces strict poll day safeguards to ensure peaceful voting

way2barak, April 7: In a decisive step to guarantee a peaceful, secure and orderly polling environment, the District Administration Cachar has issued a set of stringent directives ahead of the General Election to the Assam Legislative Assembly scheduled on April 9, 2026. Acting on credible apprehensions arising from past instances of election-related disturbances and the potential threat posed by anti-social elements, the administration has moved to pre-empt any disruption that could undermine the democratic process.

Invoking the provisions of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, District Magistrate Shri Aayush Garg has promulgated an order imposing immediate restrictions aimed at preserving public tranquility and ensuring the safety of voters across the district. The administration has expressed firm resolve to eliminate any scope for intimidation, unlawful assembly or activities that may trigger tension or violence on the day of polling.

As per the order, pillion riding has been prohibited on April 9, with exemptions granted only to women, senior citizens and children below 12 years of age. The carrying of any form of weapon, including traditional implements capable of causing harm, has been strictly banned with immediate effect. Additionally, the use or possession of explosives, crackers or any material capable of generating sound or chemical impact has been disallowed to prevent panic or disturbance.

The order further restricts the carrying of toy guns or imitation firearms, recognising their potential to create confusion or fear among the public. Movement of individuals or groups in and around polling stations will be closely regulated, and only those whose names are listed in the electoral roll of the concerned polling station will be permitted access on the day of voting, irrespective of the mode of transport.

In a bid to maintain silence and decorum around polling areas, the use of sound-producing devices or any equipment capable of amplifying or reproducing human voice has been prohibited on poll day. The administration has also reiterated that vehicles assigned to candidates, their election agents or party workers must not be used for transporting voters, warning that any such act will be treated as a corrupt practice under the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

Reinforcing electoral integrity, the order strictly bars the publication or dissemination of opinion polls and exit polls through any medium, including digital platforms, during the prohibited period, as such activities may influence voter behaviour and compromise the fairness of the election.

Given the urgency and sensitivity of the situation, the order has been issued ex-parte in the interest of the general public and has come into force with immediate effect. The District Administration has also appealed to all citizens to cooperate fully with the directives and contribute to a free, fair and peaceful electoral process.