LS polls: Model code of conduct in effect

Information-warning

Mangaluru: The dates for the Lok Sabha elections have been announced. The election model code of conduct has come into effect immediately and the election commission in maintaining a strict vigil on all actions and programmes.

During the last LS elections, a strict vigil was maintained and several types of cases were booked. Alcohol had been bought and stocked at a house in Bantwal on the occasion of a marriage. Since they had failed to get a prior permission to distribute the alcohol, officials arrested the owner of the house. This problem was caused due to the lack of information.

A complaint was filed against an actor alleging that he had used the words of a politician in a Yakshagana. At some places, even the presentation of Yakshagana was hindered by the commission. A person was subjected to interrogation after he was found in possession of money which out proper documents. The money was apparently earned by him after selling his areca nut stock. Naturally, this time too, strict measures will be implemented.

Along with Yakshagana, inspection will be carried regarding food being distributed at a private function, participation of a political figure in such a function and bearing the expense of the food by a political figure will come under scrutiny this time too.

Let the cash be accounted for!

The commission will maintain a special eye on all monetary transactions. Proper documents are required to carry cash more than the permissible amounts. If not, the amount will be seized by the commission. Care should be taken while purchasing gold. Proper documents are also required to buy gold worth more than the permissible amounts. Those selling areca nut and other goods must have proper documents for the cash they possess.

Permission mandatory for meeting-celebrations

Any political party or political person does not have the right to make statements that might incite disharmony between religions and communities. No personal abuse is permitted. Votes cannot be asked in the name of religion. Religious places cannot be used for political propaganda. Voters cannot be lured through money. Information regarding meetings by parties, procession location, time, joining people, participating political leaders and all other details must be provided to the police beforehand. The political parties must mandatorily follow the instructions of the police. Compulsory ermission is required for the use of loud speakers.

Eye on social media as well

This time too, the election commission will maintain a strict eye on whatsapp, facebook, twitter and other social media platforms. Use of any photo, writing or video which would be profitable for a political party or a candidate will be in violation of the code.

Government car withdrawn

In the backdrop of the model code of conduct, all government cars provided to the representatives of the people have been withdrawn. There is no objection to works that have already been started. However, no new works may be initiated.

Second election for DC Senthil!

Before the elections, official are transferred. Several officials have been transferred in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. But it is worth noting that the incumbent DK DC Sasikanth Senthil has continued and this will be the second time that he will be handling the responsibility of the election officer in the district.

The previous Lok Sabha elections were also handled by Mr Senthil.

Removal of illegal flexes

“With the model code of conduct in effect, the commission will be maintaining a vigil on all types of monetary transactions and the activities of the political parties. Along with the removal of political banners and flexes, all illegal banners and hoarding will also be removed,” informed DC Sasikanth Senthil.