Soldiers from the Pakistan Army have commenced their deployment in major cities across the country in anticipation of the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 8. This strategic positioning is aimed at ensuring the peaceful and secure conduct of the electoral process.
As per the Punjab Home Department, troops have already been stationed in key cities such as Lahore, Kasur, and Sheikhupura. Additional reinforcements are expected to arrive in districts like Mandi Bahauddin, Chakwal, Jhelum, and Sargodha by tomorrow.
The Punjab Home Department has underscored that maintaining law and order during the elections is of paramount importance. They have assured that close coordination between all districts and the army is in place to facilitate a seamless and secure election procedure.
Moreover, the department is actively overseeing election preparations throughout the province. This includes the installation of CCTV cameras at sensitive polling stations to augment security measures and ensure transparency.
It’s worth noting that the deployment of the Pakistan Army during elections is a customary practice observed in previous electoral cycles. The presence of military personnel is often intended to deter potential disturbances and instill confidence among voters. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential militarization of the electoral process.
Nevertheless, the Pakistan Army has reiterated its commitment to maintaining neutrality and upholding democratic principles. The primary focus remains on facilitating a peaceful and equitable election process that is accessible to all eligible voters.