Bhubaneswar, October 6: Odisha DGP Vinaytosh Mishra has directed Range IGs/DIGs and district Superintendents of Police (SPs) to ensure peaceful conduct of student union elections scheduled to be held across colleges and universities on October 15.

The DGP issued the directions during a high-level review meeting with senior police officers through video conferencing at the State Police Headquarters on Tuesday.

Mishra asked police officers to maintain regular communication with students and hold meetings with student leaders to ensure smooth and peaceful elections. He directed police to prevent outsiders and anti-social elements from entering campuses, monitor hostels and messes, and keep a close watch on student gatherings and events.

He also advised district Collectors, SPs, Sub-Collectors and college principals to hold coordination meetings and stressed the need for heightened vigilance after the declaration of election results.

The meeting also reviewed law and order during the festive season, women’s safety, cybercrime, crime control and the ‘Nishamukta Odisha Abhiyan’. The DGP directed officials to strengthen cybercrime investigations, take strict action against habitual and organised criminals, and intensify enforcement of the NDPS Act.

He also called for stronger action against drug trafficking and illegal cannabis cultivation, besides effective implementation of the new criminal laws and strengthening of police infrastructure.

Senior police officials, Range IGs/DIGs and district SPs participated in the meeting.