Three flying squad surveillance teams would be deployed in each constituency of the Jammu district to keep a tab on the expenditure incurred by candidates and to check the use of muscle and money power in the upcoming assembly elections in the state.
"There will be three flying squads for one constituency and the number of squads may be increased in expenditure sensitive constituencies to keep a tab on use of money and muscle power during the upcoming assembly elections," said Deputy commissioner Jammu Ajeet Kumar Sahu, who is also the district election officer (DEO) during a one-day training programme of the 'flying squad surveillance teams' held here today.
The program was held at Deputy Commissioner office to acquaint the surveillance teams of police and civil officers about the Expenditure Monitoring Mechanism (EMM) and other guidelines of Election Commission of India to ensure free, fair and smooth conduct of forthcoming Assembly Elections.
"The training programme focused on improving the participants' ability to handle election related situations, including effective control on violations of Model Code of Conduct, election expenditure of political parties and candidates, complaints of intimidation, influence, movement of antisocial elements, liquor, arms and large sum of cash," an official spokesman said.
The officials were told that entire poll process will be video recorded, including all the major rallies, public meetings, other political activities and their expenses.
The Election Commission today announced a five-phased schedule for elections in the state.
