With by-elections underway in six Punjab constituencies, the apex poll body warned on Sunday that some police personnel were going to polling stations in civilian clothes and were indulging in “suspicious” and “illegal” activities to influence the polls. Police officers have been directed to stay away from polling stations and election activities.
In a letter written to Punjab’s Inspector General of Police on Sunday, Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) Director of Elections Abdul Hameed said that police officers are interfering in polling activities.
It has come to the knowledge of the Competent Authority that the Punjab Special Branch policemen are entering the polling stations without authorization and their activities have been reported to be suspicious and illegal, affecting the process and results of the polling stations. she does. -Elections.
Hameed added that the presence of police officers inside the polling stations is not only a violation of their mandate but also a violation of Section 187 of the Elections Act, 2017.
Section 187 Aid to public servant- A person in the service of Pakistan is guilty of breach of official duty in connection with an election, if he misuses his official position to influence the results of the election.
Hameed said the ECP has ordered the IGP to instruct all field officers of the Special Branch of Police in the six districts where by-elections are being held to “stay away from polling stations and engage in election activities.” “Do not add otherwise strict action will be taken. Disciplinary action will be taken against them under relevant laws.”
