Pune, 30 December 2025: City Police have launched strict preventive measures ahead of the municipal corporation elections to ensure a peaceful and fear-free voting process.
More than 5,000 habitual offenders with criminal backgrounds have been subjected to preventive action so that voters are not threatened or influenced, said Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the commissioner said special police teams have been deployed across all seven police zones and the Crime Branch. These teams are closely monitoring known criminals and individuals who glorify or promote criminal activities.
Police are also keeping a close watch on pubs, beer bars, and liquor shops to prevent any misuse during the election period. Maintaining law and order and ensuring a smooth election process remains the top priority, he added.
As part of a broader crackdown on organised crime, Pune Police have intensified action against gang leaders and their associates under stringent laws such as the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) and the MPDA Act.
The focus is on breaking the financial networks that support criminal gangs. Effective action has been taken against gangs led by Bandu Andekar, Nilesh Ghaywal, Gaja Marne, and Tipu Pathan, including arrests and freezing of bank accounts.
To strengthen the criminal justice process, police are increasingly using modern technology in investigations of serious offences. In crimes carrying punishment of more than seven years, forensic laboratory vans are being rushed to crime scenes to collect scientific evidence immediately.
The police aim to raise the conviction rate in serious crimes to 50% in the coming year through better investigation and evidence handling.
Citizens have been urged to cooperate with the police and report any suspicious activity or election-related wrongdoing to help ensure a safe and transparent polling process.