AP civic polls: Drones, CCTV to keep vigil at sensitive booths

AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh is gearing up for a high-voltage municipal election showdown, with the State Election Commission putting an elaborate security network in place to prevent violence and electoral malpractice. As many as 36,351 police personnel will be deployed across the state for the November 1 polls. Authorities have identified 4,372 polling station locations as sensitive, including 671 classified as highly sensitive. Drones, CCTV cameras and videography will be pressed into service to keep a close watch on trouble spots. The commission has made it clear that intimidation, voter threats and attempts to disrupt polling will invite stringent action. With political tempers running high, the administration is determined to ensure peaceful and transparent elections.