Pakistan Army Deployed : The upcoming general elections of 2024 in Pakistan have garnered significant attention, particularly due to the deployment of the Pakistan Army. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of the Pakistan Army in the electoral process, as well as the implications of their deployment.
Constitutional Mandate and Deployment Plan
As per Article 245 of the Constitution of Pakistan, the armed forces play a crucial role in ensuring security and maintaining law and order during the electoral process. The Federal Cabinet has green-lighted the deployment of the Pakistan Army’s personnel, addressing the shortage of over 270,000 officers and personnel.
The deployment plan for the armed forces has been carefully outlined. The primary responsibility for maintaining law and order during the elections lies with the police. Civil armed forces, including Rangers and Frontier Corps, will take charge of security in the second phase. The Pakistan Army, acting as the Quick Reaction Force, will be deployed as the third tier in specific regions to address any potential security challenges.
Ensuring a Secure Electoral Environment
The collaborative efforts of Civil Armed Forces and Pakistan Army personnel aim to establish a secure environment to facilitate the smooth functioning of District Returning Officers, Returning Officers, Presiding Officers, and Polling Staff during the electoral process.
Specifically, Civil Armed Forces will guard the printing press during the ballot paper production, ensuring the security of the entire printing process. Security provisions will extend to the transportation of electoral materials from Returning Officers’ offices to polling stations, the subsequent counting process, and the return of materials to the officers’ offices.
Prohibitions and Responsibilities
In adherence to Section 144, the exhibition of weapons will be strictly prohibited on election day. Every officer and Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) will exercise their powers in line with notifications issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
Civil Armed Forces and Pakistan Army will not be involved in securing the transportation of ballot papers from the printing press to the District Returning Officer’s (DRO) offices. Their focus will remain on creating a peaceful environment around highly sensitive polling stations.
Conclusion on Pakistan Army Deployed
The deployment of the Pakistan Army for the 2024 elections is a significant move aimed at ensuring a secure and peaceful electoral process. As the nation gears up for the elections, the role of the armed forces is crucial in maintaining law and order, thereby facilitating a democratic process that is both free and fair.
