Andhra Pradesh Shuts Liquor Shops Ahead of Municipal Elections; 36,351 Police Personnel Deployed

Andhra Pradesh is gearing up for the final phase of its urban local body elections, with the government and the State Election Commission (SEC) introducing strict measures to maintain law and order. As part of the arrangements, liquor shops, bars and clubs in the jurisdiction of 13 municipal corporations, 87 municipalities and nagar panchayats will remain closed. According to the Excise Department, the dry-day restrictions will come into force from Friday at 5 PM and continue until the evening of November 1. Alcohol sales will also be completely prohibited on November 3, the day of vote counting. Authorities have warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found selling or storing liquor illegally during the restricted period.

Meanwhile, extensive security arrangements have been made for polling scheduled on November 1. A total of 36,351 police personnel, including district police, APSP forces and staff from other departments, have been deployed across the state. Security will be strengthened at 4,372 polling station locations through police personnel, drones, CCTV cameras and videography. Of these, 671 highly sensitive polling locations will be monitored with 3,355 police personnel, while 4,943 personnel have been assigned to 1,233 sensitive locations. The SEC has warned that violations of the election code of conduct and any attempt to disturb public order will invite strict action. Voters have been urged to cast their votes freely and without fear or inducement.