Election date – 10 May

Time – 0700-1800 hours

Result date – 13 May

In view of the Karnataka State Legislative Assembly election, security forces are currently on high alert and are likely to practice strict vigilance throughout May in order to contain any possible poll related disruptions.

The Karnataka government has issued a notice declaring public holiday on 10 May for all government offices and across educational institutions (both public and private). Returning officers of respective polling booths may also exercise discretionary powers to declare public holidays for government schools and offices 09 and 13 May. Given that sentiments tend to remain high during elections and that contending political parties are holding frequent campaigns and demonstrations; business organisations are likely to witness operational and supply chain disruptions. Therefore, it is important that organisations operating in Karnataka, especially in large cities like Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Chikkamagaluru, Shivamogga, etc., take possible disruptions into consideration and arrange for suitable mitigation measures.

Poll-related Disruptions:

Before Polls –

• Election campaigns (roadshows, public meetings, rallies)
• VIP movements and consequent traffic disruptions
• Political protests and clashes
• Pre-emptive security checks (Section 144, Preventive detentions)

During Polls –

• Heightened security deployments (paramilitary forces, BSF, CRPF and city/State Police)
• Special traffic arrangements (security cordons, diversions, naka checks)
• Traffic disruptions (limited availability of public transportation, surcharge rates)
• Violent crimes (vandalism, IED blasts, shootout)
• Essential service disruptions (banks, at-door delivery services may remain non-operational)
• Electoral fraud and related disruptions

After Polls –

• Post-poll violence (clashes, protests, attack on polling officers/staff)
• Infrastructural damage (attack on EVMs, government buses, and trains)
• Victory rallies and related traffic disruptions
• VIP movements for delivering congratulatory or concession public speeches

Upcoming Events:

Roadshow by PM Modi

06 May: First phase (1000-1330 hours)

07 May: Second Phase (1000-1430 hours)

Sensitive Areas:

Recommendations:

For Organisations-

• Bengaluru, being the hub of business and economic activities, is likely to witness comparatively higher instances of traffic and localised disruptions. Therefore, businesses organisations are advised to accommodate for the same. For detailed locations of polling stations in Bengaluru, refer to the Bengaluru Graduates` Constituency list and for district-wise polling stations across Karnataka, refer to the Assembly Constituencies list.
• Advised to undertake flexible working arrangements and permit remote operations.
• Advised to complete urgent banking related work before polling day on 10 May.
• In view of plausible poll-related disruptions, it is also advised to prepare for emergency situations like imposition of curfews, prohibitory orders, or suspension of internet.
• MitKat recommends arranging for adequate power supply backups to minimize the impact of power outages on operations.
• It is also advised to avoid scheduling very important meetings (both in virtual and online modes) between the polling day (10 May) and the result day (13 May).
• Make alternate arrangements for supply chains, especially on 10 May and 13 May.
• Advised to prepare a robust Duty of Care policy for executives working onsite or are engaged in outdoor operations.
• Prepare for an emergency exit plan and if operating in close proximity to a polling booth, advised to undertake simulations involving all employees. Ensure that exits are clear and visibly marked for all.
• Run a security assessment of physical spaces, flammable items, CCTVs, and the locking system. Consider temporary fencing and boarding up windows especially on polling and result days in case operating near polling booths or in sensitive areas.
• It is also recommended to arrange for strict entry-exit policy for the weeks preceding and succeeding the election day.
• Given that cybercrime and cyber interference increase during elections, organisations must take careful measures like using VPNs, closed networks, and other access controls.
• Organisations should encourage employees to take the time to verify the authenticity of calls, emails, and texts before communicating sensitive information.

For Individuals-

• Employees are advised to have alternate routes map and consider extra travel time. Refer to Bengaluru City Traffic Police for regular traffic updates.
• Elaborate security checks at airports may lead to congestion and operational delays. Commuters are advised to reach airports well in advance (three hours in prior for inbound flights and four hours for international flights).
• Given that authorities tend to strengthen security checks during elections, it is advised to carry proper identity proofs when stepping outside. If availing private or personal vehicles, carry essential vehicle documents as well.
• Advised to carry a portable charger when going out and ensure that cellular phones are adequately charged and have enough balance for making calls.
• Keep emergency numbers handy, on speed-dial as well as in writing.
• Ensure that personal vehicles are serviced and have adequate fuel.
• Stock up on essential items like medicines, sanitary products, and ration.
• Advised to avoid making sensitive comments both in public discussion and social media platforms during elections.
• It is also advised to keep emergency lights, torches, and cells handy.
• MitKat advises to steer clear of protest sites and remain vigilant of situational updates.
• Last but not the least, voters are advised to exercise their Right to Vote responsibly, while ensuring personal safety and precautions against the COVID-19.
• For further queries, refer to Karnataka Election Information System

Emergency Contact Numbers:

• Bengaluru Police: Bengaluru City Police
• Citizens Call Center: 155300
• Women Helpline: 1091/181
• Ambulance: 102/108
• BBMP: 080-22660000
• BESCOM: 1912
• State Voter Helpline Number:1950