As Bihar gears up for its two-phase assembly elections next month, neighbouring Jharkhand has intensified border security by operationalizing 43 checkpoints across 10 border districts, including nine newly established posts, to stop the illegal movement of cash, liquor, narcotics, and contraband.
The move follows a formal request from the Bihar administration, which is preparing for elections scheduled on November 6 and 11.
Round-the-Clock Vigil Across 10 Border Districts
Jharkhand Police spokesperson and IG (Operations) Michael Raj confirmed to PTI that the checkpoints are fully operational and monitored 24/7.
“We have established nine new checkpoints in addition to the existing 34. Currently, there are 43 active checkpoints spread across all 10 districts bordering Bihar,” Raj said.
The districts where checkpoints are active include:
- Garhwa
- Palamu
- Chatra
- Hazaribagh
- Koderma
- Giridih
- Deoghar
- Dumka
- Godda
- Sahibganj
The heightened surveillance will continue until the second phase of polling concludes on November 11.
Joint Teams Ensuring Transparency and Enforcement
Each checkpoint is jointly staffed by:
- Security personnel
- Magistrates
- Videography teams
This structure ensures transparency, strict enforcement of election guidelines, and monitoring under the model code of conduct.
A senior official emphasized that Jharkhand and Bihar administrations across 18 districts are coordinating to ensure smooth, secure, and fair elections.
“These steps are part of a comprehensive security plan to ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections in the region,” he said.
Early Success: Liquor and Cash Seized
The enforcement drive has already produced results:
Liquor Seized in Koderma:
Acting on a tip-off, Koderma Police intercepted a car carrying a large quantity of Indian-made foreign liquor intended for smuggling into Bihar.
The driver, a resident of Namkum in Ranchi, was arrested.
Rs 16.5 Lakh Cash Seized in Hazaribagh:
At the Chordaha checkpoint under Chauparan police station, authorities seized ₹16.5 lakh from a vehicle last week.
The accused, a resident of Delhi, failed to provide valid documents or a convincing explanation and was sent to judicial custody.
“Cases involving unaccounted money will be referred to the Income Tax Department,” said Saroj Singh Chaudhary, Officer-in-Charge of Chauparan police station.
Bihar Elections at a Glance
- Total Seats: 243
- Polling Phases:
- Phase 1 – November 6
- Phase 2 – November 11
- Counting Date: November 14
With election-related trafficking and cash misuse posing recurring challenges, Jharkhand’s proactive border control is seen as a crucial step in safeguarding the democratic process.
