Lucknow, Apr 4 : The Election Commission has directed the Uttar Pradesh Government to launch a special drive against illegal arms and ammunition.

"It has been brought to the notice of the EC that some persons have displayed arms during a procession in support of a candidate at Sultanpur last month. The Commission has taken a serious view in the matter," EC's Principal Secretary Shangara Ram said.

Ram further said that no individual or group of persons would be allowed to display arms during a procession on any meeting in support of a candidate.

"Displaying arms in procession in support of a candidate during campaign period was tantamount to threat and intimidation to voters," he added.

The Principal Secretary informed that a drive would be launch to seize unlicensed arms and ammunition.

"A very thorough search and seizure by the State police of unlicensed arms and places of illegal manufacture of arms and ammunition should be carried out and persons involved should be arrested. It shall be vigorously intensified during the election period," he added. (ANI)