Kozhikode, 02 May (H.S.):The district administration has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 across Kozhikode ahead of the Assembly election vote counting scheduled for Monday, in a bid to prevent any law and order issues following recent incidents of political violence in parts of the district.

District Collector and District Election Officer Snehil Kumar Singh said the restrictions will come into force from Saturday evening and remain in place through the counting day. He noted that the administration is taking precautionary steps to ensure that the counting process is conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner without any disturbances.

“Section 144 will be applicable across the district. Unnecessary gatherings will not be allowed, and the sale and use of firecrackers will be restricted on counting day,” the Collector said, adding that police have been directed to take strict action against any violations, particularly those related to victory celebrations.

Authorities have also imposed tight restrictions on public celebrations and demonstrations by political parties. Candidates and their supporters will be allowed to organise victory events only with prior permission from the respective Station House Officers. Such celebrations must be confined to designated locations identified by the police, and any deviation from the guidelines will invite action.

Officials said the decision was taken in view of heightened political tensions and to avoid any untoward incidents as results are announced. Surveillance has been stepped up in sensitive areas, and additional police personnel will be deployed across the district to maintain law and order.

Meanwhile, elaborate arrangements have been made for counting at three centres in Kozhikode — Madappally Government College, St Mary’s School at Koodathayi under Koduvalli constituency, and JDT School at Velimadukunnu. Security has been tightened at all centres with controlled access.

In neighbouring Malappuram district, counting will be held at seven centres. Votes for six constituencies, including Kondotty and Manjeri, will be counted at Malappuram Government College, while Nilambur and Wandoor will be covered at Amal College of Advanced Studies.

Separate counting centres have also been set up in Tirurangadi for Vengara, Vallikkunnu and Tirurangadi constituencies to ensure smooth conduct of the process.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman