Jammu: Terming the security set-up in Jammu and Kashmir as "better" than that in 2002 polls, Election Commission today (April 3, 2004) warned that strong action would be initiated against those intimidating electorate in the State.

"The security situation at present is better than that in 2002 elections. Adequate security arrangements have been made for a free, fair and trouble-free elections in JK this year," Election Commissioners B B Tandon and N Gopalswamy told reporters today at the end of their three-day tour to the State.

To a question about anti-election campaigns being launched by separatist outfits to intimidate voters in the State, Gopalswamy said strong action would be taken against anybody found indulging in it.

"We have no objection to the expression of anybody against elections. But this expression should not be thrust upon voters," he said.

Elaborating on the security arrangements in the State, the EC officials said directives have been passed to security forces that no member would be allowed to take any voter to polling booths.

Referring to the passing of Permanent Resident (disqualification) Bill by Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, they said, "The passing of Bill by a Legislature after the imposition of model code of conduct does not amount to its violation."

Legislature has its own jurisdiction and it can do so, the EC officials said.