Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi
Udupi, Sep 20: With the announcement of the Legislative Council by-election, all political parties must adhere strictly to the model code of conduct and the guidelines issued by the Election Commission, instructed Deputy Commissioner Dr K Vidyakumari.
She was presiding over a meeting of representatives of political parties held today at the district commissioner’s office hall in Manipal’s Rajatadri.
To conduct the Legislative Council by-election impartially and fairly, all political parties must cooperate with the district administration by following the Election Commission’s directives, she said.
She added that no public representatives or ministers can call meetings or video conferences with members of any local authorities that are part of the electorate. Routine meetings of local bodies can be conducted with prior approval from the district election officials.
The DC emphasized that no new policies or programs that may directly or indirectly influence voters should be initiated by any government departments until the elections are over. She further warned that there should be no misuse of government machinery.
Political parties in power do not have exclusive rights to public spaces or grounds for election rallies or to provide space for helicopters. All parties and candidates will be given first-come, first-served priority in using these facilities, she added.
Before issuing any election advertisements, prior approval must be obtained from the District Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) for advertisements on TV channels, cable networks, radio, private FM channels, cinema halls, audio-visual displays, and bulk SMS voice messages.
The use of religious institutions or places for campaign purposes is prohibited. She warned that if events such as birthdays or other celebrations are organized with food or parties to attract voters, strict legal action will be taken.
Government officials must comply with the Model Code of Conduct. If violated, disciplinary action will be taken against those responsible as per the law.
Present at the meeting were additional deputy commissioner Mamata Devi G S, ASP Siddalingappa, district information officer Manjunath B, and political party representatives Chandrashekhar Prabhu, Habeeb Ali Khader, and Jayakumar.