DK & Udupi Deputy Commissioners Direct Political Parties to Strictly Adhere to Model Poll Code Ahead of LC Byelection

Deputy Commissioners of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts have asked political parties to strictly adhere to the poll code of conduct in view of the byelection to Dakshina Kannada and Udupi Local Authorities Constituency scheduled for October 21.

Dakshina Kannada DC and Returning Officer M.P. Mullai Muhilan said that other than checkposts in constituencies’ borders, all other codes of conduct applicable to normal elections would be applicable for election from Local Authorities constituency. Nominations would be received at his office while political parties or candidates have to obtain permission to hold campaign meetings. The Election Commission would establish a singled-window system to provide permission different agencies.

Udupi DC Ms. Vidyakumari said people’s representatives and Ministers are barred from calling meetings of members of any local authority who would be casting their franchise in the upcoming elections. Routine meetings may be convened, if necessary, after obtaining permission from the respective district electoral officer.

The DC said political parties should obtain permission before publishing/broadcasting/telecasting any poll advertisement from the district media certification and monitoring committee. No religious places should be used for campaigning while stringent action would be initiated against the concerned if voters are lured into the guise of birthday celebration and such other programmes.