Pics: Brijesh Garodi
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (BG)

Mangalore, Mar 22: “The state Legislative Assembly election has been scheduled for May 5. The model code of conduct is already in force,” said DC N Prakash, addressing the press meet held at DC office Conference Hall, here on Friday March 22.

SVEEP, a special awareness program is in progress across the district with a view to create awareness among the general public. A team under the leadership of ZP CEO, Dr K N Vijayprakash has been planning well for creating awareness through various means like media, stickers and banners in public places including transport means.

The election will be held on May 5 from 8 am to 5 pm. Counting of votes will be done on Wednesday May 8. The model code of conduct is in progress across the state and all the political parties and its candidates are asked to adhere to the codes directed by the election commission of India.

The last date for the nomination filing is Wednesday April 17. The last date for withdrawal of nominations is on April 20. All the election procedures are to be completed before May 11, he said.

He further explained the procedures for the cross checking, removal, additions in the electoral list and its proceedings. MCC Commissioner, Harish Kumar has been specially trained in Delhi by the central election commission with regard to the regulations and guidelines for the model code of conduct, which is another plus point for the district, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, MCC commissioner, Harish Kumar said that there are certain restrictions and guidelines to be strictly followed by the political parties and its candidates regarding various matters pre mentioned. They are bound to work under the model code of conduct from April 20 to May 10. They need to obtain permission from the incharge district election officers and committee for any public gatherings, speech, processions etc.

Political parties and candidates who want to give advertisements in any media have to obtain permission from the district election commission committee that comprises of district election officer, observer, Press Council of India’s representatives and others. There is no particular restriction for advertisements, but with two major views, prior permission has to be obtained and the advertisement copy has to be submitted and checked to avoid hurting sentiments of any particular caste, religions etc. Checking is also necessary in view of obtaining exact expenditure on ads.

Any political party preparing to conduct gatherings in public grounds has to inform the committee well in advance, so as to avoid misunderstanding between the parties regarding their gathering date and timings. Banners, buntings and flags are permitted to be used one hour prior to the meetings and should be removed by an hour after the meeting or public gathering.

Use of sound systems or public speeches after 10 pm is strictly forbidden, he added.

Additional DC Dayanand and ZP CEO Dr K N Vijayaprakash were also present.