Patna: The Patna district administration has intensified security measures in Mokama following the murder of a political candidate’s supporter, ordering residents to deposit all licensed weapons with local police stations.
Officials confirmed that since Saturday morning, authorities have been contacting individuals who have yet to surrender their licensed firearms, even those who had previously verified their weapons and ammunition. Arms Magistrate Arshi Shaheen said that all such individuals have been directed to immediately deposit their weapons and ammunition at their respective police stations.
Residents who visited police stations to comply with the order said they received calls from the administration warning of legal action if they failed to act promptly. Officials noted that despite three prior extensions, several license holders neither verified their arms nor deposited them. Magistrates have now been deployed to police stations to oversee compliance.
Tighter Checks on Convoys and Campaigns
The administration has also moved to clamp down on unauthorised convoys. Vehicles moving in groups without official permission will be seized, and those accompanying candidates with permission will face regular inspections. Security has been heightened for the three main candidates contesting from Mokama.
Authorities emphasised that maintaining order in the Mokama and Barh constituencies is a top priority, ensuring that voters can cast their ballots freely and without intimidation.
Weapons Ban and Model Code Enforcement
District officials have been instructed to take swift action against any breach of the Model Code of Conduct. Surveillance of criminal elements has been stepped up, alongside efforts to recover illegal weapons and increase preventive measures under the Crime Control Act.
The administration has also intensified scrutiny of candidates’ election spending, ordering continuous monitoring by flying squads, static and video surveillance teams, and expenditure observers.
