KARACHI, Feb 10: The army will be deployed across Sindh by February 12 to assist police and Rangers during general election.

The provincial cabinet was informed of the decision on Saturday. Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (retd) Abdul Qadir Halepota had chaired the meeting, which reviewed the law and order situation.

It was told that the deployment would be made in such a way that the response time of the forces was enhanced.

The meeting was informed that some Frontier Corps troops would also be made available at tri-border areas.

However, police would maintain the lead role in ensuring security during polls, while the Rangers would support the police.

Rangers would be deployed mainly at the most sensitive polling stations and also perform patrolling duties.

The meeting also took stock of bomb blasts and incidents of violence over the past three months and reviewed performance of the police in curbing crimes.

It was told that more than 600 police personnel had been suspended on various counts and departmental action was under way against them.

It was told that sufficient security had been provided to some political leaders.

There would be a strict ban on display of weapons, agitation, acts of violence to cause damage to property or disruption in civic life, road blocks etc.

A control room would be established at the home department to monitor the situation round the clock.

The chief minister directed government officials to remain strictly impartial during polls.

The cabinet also approved the draft Sindh General Provident Investment Fund Ordinance for promulgation.

—APP