Uttar Pradesh: Red cards to ‘dubious characters’ ahead of Panchayat polls in Pratapgarh

PRAYAGRAJ: In an attempt to conduct panchayat polls peacefully in neighbouring Pratapgarh district, police have issued over 4,700 ‘red cards’ to people with dubious character in the district.
As per available data, as many as 200 red cards have been issued in Kotwali, 500 in Antoo, 115 in Kodhaur, 240 in Patti, 120 in Aspur, 165 in Kandhai, 300 in Mandhata, 200 in Raniganj, 100 in Fatanpur, 700 in Lalganj, 137 in Sangipur, 150 in Sangramgrah, 150 in Udaypur, 350 in Kunda, 200 in Manikpur, 250 in Nawabganj, 155 in Hathigawon, 200 in Maheshganj, 180 in Jethwara and 300 in Baghrai.
Deputy SP (Raniganj) Dr Atul Anjan Tripathi told TOI that red cards have been issued to persons with ‘dubious character’ whose presence could disturb law and order situation. He added that these persons have been told to stay in their homes after casting their vote in panchayat poll or legal action would be initiated against them.
A joint team of local intelligence unit and local police has been assigned to keep an eye on persons who were issued red cards ahead of panchayat polls. The red card has all details including name, father’s name, address, police station and district.
The polling in Pratapgarh district will be held at 1,399 polling stations and 3,768 polling booths from 7am to 6pm on Monday. A total of 20 cluster mobile and 20 police station mobile teams have also been engaged to conduct free and fair polls. Police have also decided to utilize drones in trouble-prone areas and videography will also be conducted.