Kadapa Police Launch Massive CASO Ahead of Local Polls, Mandate Form-III for Foreigners

In a bid to bolster security ahead of the upcoming local body elections, the Kadapa police have intensified Cordoning and Search Operations (CASO) across the district. Superintendent of Police Shelke Nachiket Vishwanath announced that digital reporting of details regarding the arrival, stay, and accommodation of foreign nationals through Form-III is now mandatory. The move aims to monitor and regulate the presence of foreigners during the election period.

The CASO initiative involves systematic cordoning and searching of areas to detect illegal activities, arms, and anti-social elements. The SP emphasized that all hotels, guesthouses, and individuals hosting foreign nationals must comply with Form-III requirements, which include digital submission of passport details, visa information, and purpose of visit. This measure is part of a broader strategy to ensure free and fair elections, with similar operations being conducted in other districts of Andhra Pradesh. Official sources indicate that the police have already registered several cases for violations and are conducting awareness campaigns among hoteliers and residents.

The intensified security measures come amid heightened political activity and expectations of a competitive electoral battle. While the police assert that the operations are routine and aimed at maintaining law and order, opposition parties have occasionally criticized such moves as targeting specific communities. The success of these measures will depend on public cooperation and strict enforcement. The police have urged citizens to report any suspicious activity and assured that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure a peaceful polling process. Next steps include increased patrolling, checkpoints, and coordination with central agencies to monitor foreign nationals' movements.