Poll preparations almost complete: CEO
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, October 06 2020:
Close on the heels of the ECI's announcement of by-poll schedule for Lilong AC, Wangjing-Tentha AC, Wangoi AC, Saitu AC and Singnat AC, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) PK Singh has claimed that preparation for the by-polls is almost complete.
Briefing media persons at his office today, PK Singh said that the model code of conduct came into effect in the entire districts of Kangpokpi, Thoubal and Churachandpur soon after the election schedule was announced by the ECI.
However, in Imphal West district, the model code of conduct would be applicable only in the Assembly segment of Wangoi AC as it falls within the capital district, said the CEO.
COVID-19 SOP would be strictly followed in the by-election as per ECI guidelines.
Postal ballot would be available to elderly persons, persons with disabilities and COVID patients who are under quarantine.
Deletion and correction of electoral rolls will not be allowed.
However, in case of addition, it can be done ten days ahead of nominations, said the CEO.
He said that latest Mark III Electoral Voting Machine (EVM) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) would be used in the by-election.
Even though the Government may carry on its normal activities, highlighting or announcement of any achievement in any form is prohibited, PK Singh said.
MP Local Area Development Fund and MLA Local Area Development cannot be released until the election process is over regardless of whether it is for ongoing or new projects.
Political messages or pictures cannot be published in media as advertisement.
Any activity which may influence the election is also prohibited, said the CEO.
To a query, he said that the ECI may announce the election schedule any time as done for Wangjing-Tentha AC and Lilong AC on September 29 and Wangoi AC, Saitu AC and Singhat AC on October 5.Even though there are Acts and rules which say that by-elections should be held within six months after an Assembly Constituency or Parliamentary Constituency becomes vacant, ECI is not bound by these Acts and rules if litigations particularly election petitions are pending at Courts, PK Singh said.