In anticipation of the imminent enforcement of the model code of conduct (MCC) for the general elections, authorities have announced the establishment of checkposts along the Maharashtra-Karnataka border and inter-district borders. District collectors from Kolhapur, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Sangli, and the border district of Karnataka (Belagavi) convened in Kolhapur to strategize on measures to thwart the transportation of goods used as inducements during elections.

In a recent meeting led by the then Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Maharashtra, Shrikant Deshpande, officials from various government agencies were cautioned about their responsibility for any MCC violations. The district collectors and superintendents of police (SPs) from the concerned districts decided to establish temporary checkposts at all routes connecting districts and states.

Kolhapur District Collector, Amol Yedage, emphasized the deployment of additional manpower for checking suspicious vehicles, particularly those transporting cash, liquor, drugs, and other items used to influence voters. The move aims to maintain strict vigilance and curb illegal practices during elections.

Police authorities have already implemented 35 checkposts along the Maharashtra-Karnataka borders, focusing on preventing the illegal transportation of liquor from Goa, either through Konkan or Belagavi. Large trucks and tempos disguise liquor containers as industrial and other goods. Mahendra Pandit, Superintendent of Kolhapur Police, highlighted the formation of teams to track vehicles based on tip-offs, ensuring the seizure of illicit goods. Each district will establish rapid squads to conduct random checks at the checkposts, ensuring proper enforcement of security measures and adherence to the MCC.

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