28 observers for Manipur polls

IMPHAL, Jan 13—A total of 28 election observers are going to oversee the forthcoming 8th Assembly elections which is scheduled to be held on February 14 and 21. The election observers are likely to arrive here on January 17 to oversee the preparations for the two phase state assembly elections, a reliable official sources said. The arrangement for providing security cover to the visiting 28 election observers have reportedly been completed. Sources further stated that six observers will oversee election in each district. One election observer will be engaged at Jirbam sub-division, bordering Cachar district of Assam. The State authority also taken up steps to provide security vehicles and wireless sets to the observers. Meanwhile, a state level election coordinating meeting held at the office chamber of State Chief Secretary Rakesh has decided to use around 56,000 armed security personnel with around 5000 unarmed polling personnel for smooth conduct of the election this time. The meeting was held on Saturday. In the first phase polling which is to be held on February 14 in 40 valley Assembly segments, the authority is trying to deploy 157 companies of security forces, sources said. Besides 1500 vehicles will be used in the forthcoming election, sources said, adding that each company of security forces will be given one light vehicle, one medium vehicle, two buses and one laxury truck. Petrol vehicles will be supplied 30 litres of fuel per day while diesel vehicles will be given 40 litres per day. Police officials have reportedly sought Rs 14 crore for expenses on fuel and other vehicle charges. In order to bridge the communication gap between the police headquarters and all election officials including those in Jiribam and Kangpokpi will be provided wireless sets from January 16.