NEW DELHI: As a prelude to the Bihar Assembly polls, the Election Commission on Thursday directed the State Government to execute all non-bailable warrants (NBWs) issued against criminals.

Sources said the Commission had indicated that the elections would be conducted in October-November. Even as preparations were being made, it was concerned at criminalisation of politics. As a first step, it wanted to ensure that the NBWs were executed immediately.

Districtwise report sought

The Commission ordered the State administration to conduct searches to unearth illegal arms and take preventive action against habitual offenders and anti-social elements.

It asked the State authorities to send districtwise, consolidated reports on the execution of the NBWs as well as on seizure of illegal arms every week beginning July 1.

The Commission directed the State to provide proper communication facilities such as telephone and wireless sets with accessories to all police stations, to repair immediately damaged road/infrastructure, to maintain arterial roads in good condition and to provide funds to the Chief Electoral Officer for the elector's photo identity card programme.

The Commission asked the Government to direct authorities to implement the Prevention of Defacement of Property Act in letter and in spirit from now.

The District Collectors were asked to conduct a comprehensive training programme on the functioning of electronic voting machines to representatives of political parties and officials.

Violation in Penukonda

The Commission, which reviewed the recent byelection in Penukonda in Andhra Pradesh, expressed displeasure over State Agriculture Minister N. Raghuveera Reddy canvassing votes for Congress candidate B. Sreeramulu using a convoy with more than the permissible number of vehicles. The Commission found his explanation unsatisfactory.

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