Imphal West DEO interacts with media fraternity
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 10 2017: An interaction programme with the media fraternity of both print and electronic was held at Komberei Hall under the aegis of the DC/DEO Imphal West in connection with the ensuing State Legislative Assembly Election 2017 for the conduct of free, fair and peaceful election.

Imphal West SP N Herojit, Additional SP Dr S Ibomcha, Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers and media persons took part in the interaction programme that was chaired by Imphal West DEO Robert Kshetrimayum.

During the interactive session, key points under Model Code of Conduct, SAMADHAN, SUVIDHA, SUGAM, Election Expenditure Monitoring Mechanism and paid news were discussed in-depth with the media fraternity.

As per the information given by the Nodal Officer SAMADHAN Ph Bhava-nanda, almost 231 complaints have been registered so far, out of which 210 have been disposed and 21 still in progress.

Nodal Officer SUGAM R K Jayantakumar stressed on the management of vehicles using application software for ensuring transparency and proper management of vehicles for election purpose.

M Kubiheiba Meitei, Nodal Officer SUVIDHA, said the SUVIDHA software will help political parties in getting permission for rallies and public meetings without hassle.

Nodal Officer Expenditure Salam Somorendro explained that the cut off limit for expenditure in the ensuing election by a candidate should not exceed 20 lakhs.

During the discussion, the issue of paid news was also analysed.

The DEO appealed the media fraternity to co-operate in curbing paid news and prohibit publication of the same.

Nodal Officer Media Communications Kishan Longjam elaborated on the important aspects of paid news starting from its basic definition to its most critical aspects.

SP Imphal West N Herojit Meetei in a statement to the media persons stated that measures of monitoring liquor, intoxicants, narcotics, arms and unaccounted cash in relation to election has increased since the Code of Conduct came into effect on 4 January.

Photographs of the efforts made by the police are sent to the Election Commission or to the CEO office.

The police have also tightened its vigil to prevent extortion in the district, he said.

The last date to deposit licensed arms is tomorrow, the SP said while appealing to all the licensed arms holders to deposit their arms and ammunition by tomorrow.

Arms license of those failing to deposit by tomorrow may be suspended, he added.

The public may send photos or videos of election related complaints to mobile number � 9836021798, Chief Electoral Officer informed.

In his final note to media fraternity, the DEO, Imphal West thanked the media persons, both print and electronic, for actively participating in the interaction programme by raising important issues pertaining to conduct of free, fair and peaceful election.

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