In all, 10 companies of central paramilitary forces will be deployed in Kannur district where the outbreak of violence is feared during the elections.
Sources said that five companies of the CISF — three from the ITBP and two from the Karnataka Special Armed Forces — will arrive at the district headquarters on March 28.
Circle Inspectors of the local police will brief them about the issues involved and familiarise them with the terrain. The forces will take out flag marches in sensitive areas to instil confidence among the voters.
The armed personnel will also be posted as guards in front of the chosen polling stations. Their service will also be utilised for patrolling duty. According to the Election Commission report, there are 187 ‘vulnerable hamlets’ and 614 sensitive booths in Kannur.