14 October,2014 06:38 AM IST | | Ranjeet Jadhav
With abundant patches of isolated forest areas, Aarey Milk Colony is often frequented by political party workers for clandestine meetings or while looking for illegal liquor supplies
Police officials and Election Commission have joined hands, and are checking vehicles entering the Aarey Milk Colony after midnight and also during the day
With polling day tomorrow, the police officials have increased vigilance and patrolling inside Aarey Milk colony, and have also started surprise checks at various padas at night, when local politicians have been known to organise meetings in isolated areas abundant in the forest.
Police officials and Election Commission have joined hands, and are checking vehicles entering the Aarey Milk Colony after midnight and also during the day. Representation Pic
The police authorities and Election Commission (EC) have joined hands, and are checking vehicles entering the Colony after midnight, as well as starting video surveillance in the area, to seize any liquor or cash being distributed illegally.
A local resident, requesting anonymity, said, "There are illegal liquor dens at many places in Aarey, where political party workers are given treats. Police should start taking action on these dens."
Speaking to mid-day, Senior Police Inspector Vilas Chavan from Aarey police station said, "Earlier, when the road was under the jurisdiction of the Aarey CEO, entry was restricted after midnight. But now that the road has been taken over by BMC, there are chances that untoward incidents can take place, as the roads pass through forested patches, and internal roads are also deserted. With voting day nearing, we don't want any problems and are checking each and every vehicle that entering Aarey Milk Colony after midnight."
Patrolling in the area has increased in the past two weeks, while vehicle checks have also become more stringent since last week.
In fact, vehicles are now also being checked in the day to ensure foolproof security. EC officials enforcing the code of conduct are also seen checking and recording video footage of vehicles entering an leaving at night.
"There are many shortcuts into Aarey Colony, and during election time, political party workers even come here at night to conduct meetings, as the forested patches ensure no one comes to know what is happening," said a police constable, who did not wished to be named.