Effective surveillance including raids at nights by static surveillance teams and even distribution of work to various monitoring bodies guided by expenditure observer Dinesh Kumar Rakshit not only restricted movement of illegal cash and goods but also instilled confidence in the minds of the common man and neutral voters in the district.
After analysing the political situation and topography in the four constituencies, the expenditure observer had increased the number of flying squads in Cumbum constituency. The duty of 30 surveillance teams meant for four constituencies had been modified suitably. They were divided into two groups and ordered to work in shifts giving them considerable time to take rest and work efficiently during work hours. Such measures ensured effective surveillance, said election officials.
The observer, who was keen on visiting all polling stations and covering all sensitive areas, visited remote places such as Top Station. Kozhukku Malai and Central Station, above Top Station on Kurangani Hill, where there was no proper road connectivity for movement of vehicles, and Vellimalai on Varushanadu hill that has few polling stations were also in his tour agenda.
Special instructions were given to the static teams to move to interior villages within the duty area to check for illegal activities.
The observer during his visit to villages on Highwavys on Monday interacted with the tribal people and tea estate workers and questioned whether they were coerced or threatened by any persons or political party men. He also advised them to be bold in casting their vote according to their wish and assured that Election Commission would provide them adequate protection.
With effective surveillance, the team had seized cash and goods worth more than Rs.1 crore, said election officials.
