Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Punjab the next month, adding a palpable buzz to the state's political arena, signaling a pivotal moment as preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections gather steam. With the elections slated for June 1 in Punjab, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is revving up its campaign machinery, with the Prime Minister's presence, sometime in May end, set to inject renewed vigour into their electoral strategy in the State where the saffron brigade is struggling amidst the farmers’ protest. Also, it is for the first time, after 1966, that the saffron party is entering the poll arena without any alliance.

Preparing for the same, Punjab Government has also issued letters to all department heads, Deputy Commissioners, and police officers regarding security arrangements instructing the officials concerned to ensure compliance with regulations regarding the PM’s security arrangements and to ensure that preparations are completed on time.

The, issued by the General Administration Department’s protocol branch, emphasized the importance of stringent security measures. The directives also underscored the need for meticulous adherence to security protocols to ensure the Prime Minister's safety during his engagements in the State.

Security arrangements are expected to encompass a range of logistical considerations, including the deployment of barricades, provision of adequate parking facilities, and the establishment of designated helipads. With the elections drawing near, officials concerned have been instructed to expedite their preparations to meet the stringent security requirements outlined by the authorities.

The Prime Minister's visit holds particular significance against the backdrop of the electoral landscape in Punjab, where political parties are intensifying their campaigning efforts. Elections in Punjab will be held in the last and final phase.

In parallel, the Congress party’s national leaders are poised to commence their campaign visits to Punjab from the next month, adding to the fervour of political activity in the region. With both parties having announced their candidates for a significant number of seats, the stage is set for a spirited electoral contest in Punjab.

Amidst the preparations, the BJP had earlier appealed to the Election Commission regarding security arrangements for the Prime Minister’s visit. The appeal underscored the complexities involved in coordinating with multiple security agencies and emphasized the need for seamless coordination between political party managers and security personnel.

Reflecting on past incidents, concerns regarding security lapses during high-profile visits have come to the fore. Notably, during Prime Minister Modi’s previous visit to Hussainiwala in January 2022, demonstrators obstructed his route, resulting in a delay in his convoy’s progression.

In response to the BJP's appeal, the Election Commission has also issued directives to the Punjab government, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures to safeguard the Prime Minister during his upcoming visit. The directives underscored the shared responsibility of state and district authorities in ensuring comprehensive security arrangements for the Prime Minister's engagements, including meetings, roadshows, and rallies.

As preparations intensify and political activity gains momentum, all eyes are on Punjab as it braces for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The Prime Minister’s visit is poised to inject further dynamism into the electoral landscape, setting the stage for a spirited contest as political parties vie for electoral supremacy in the State.