In the wake of the ongoing Bihar Assembly elections, Uttar Pradesh Police have intensified checking along the 524-km-long UP-Bihar border, leading to multiple arrests and significant seizures.
The border area touches seven districts of Uttar Pradesh—Deoria, Kushinagar, Maharajganj, Ghazipur, Chandauli, Ballia, and Sonbhadra—where strict vigilance is being maintained to curb illegal activities during the poll period.
Addressing the mediaperson here on Thursday, IG Law and Order L R Kumar claimed that so far, police have registered 197 cases related to illegal liquor and arrested 209 accused, seizing approximately 7,409 litres of illicit liquor valued at around Rs 24.5 lakh. In separate operations, four cases of illegal narcotics were registered, resulting in the arrest of four individuals and the recovery of about 5 kg of contraband worth nearly Rs 2.42 lakh, he said.
In view of the elections, the UP Police have set up 94 check posts (51 mirror check posts and 45 CCTV-equipped barriers) along the Bihar border, deploying 602 personnel, including Sub-Inspectors, Head Constables, and Constables. The border has been completely sealed to ensure smooth and fair polling. These posts will remain active until the completion of the election process.
The first phase of polling is being held today in 15 assembly constituencies adjoining the UP districts of Kushinagar, Deoria, Ballia, and Ghazipur, while the second phase is scheduled for November 11, covering five constituencies bordering Maharajganj, Kushinagar, Ghazipur, Chandauli, and Sonbhadra.
To maintain law and order during the election, 40 companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) have been deployed with all necessary equipment and resources. Police officials confirmed that intensive checking and surveillance operations will continue throughout the election period to prevent smuggling and ensure peaceful voting.