DEOs hold all-party meeting in Thoothukudi and Kanniyakumari following poll announcement

After the Election Commission announced the election schedule for Tamil Nadu, the District Election Officers (DEOs) on Monday held meetings with representatives of recognised political parties in Thoothukudi and Kanniyakumari.

In Thoothukudi, Collector and DEO K. Elambahavath said the model code of conduct (MCC) must be followed by political parties and candidates. Relief works and projects that began before the announcement of the poll schedule could continue. Relief works related to flood, drought and epidemics could also be carried out. 

The police should be notified in advance about political meetings, and permission must be obtained to hold them. Only those with permission letters issued by the Election Commission could enter polling booths, and complaints related to election should be brought to the attention of the Election Commission and designated officials. Outsiders who were not voters of the constituency must leave the constituency after the campaigning, he further said.

Restrictions imposed on Ministers regarding advertising were also explained.

The DEO urged the political parties not to interfere with meetings or processions held by other parties.

District Revenue Officer M. Guruchandran, returning officers of six constituencies and other officials were present.

Kanniyakumari Collector and DEO R. Alagumeena met members of recognised political parties and told them that the model code of conduct ensured that all parties participating in the election were treated equally and given opportunities. Transparent implementation of the code of conduct helped to enhance the confidence of the voters in the process.

Wall posters, cut-outs, banners and other advertising materials would not be allowed on government office premises and public spaces. In rural areas, wall advertising could be done on private structures only after obtaining permission from the owners and assistance director (village panchayat). 

Political parties and candidates were prohibited from using government vehicles during their rallies, and not more than 10 vehicles, including security vehicles, would be allowed during processions. 

If complaints were received about distribution of money, liquor or other gifts to voters, the monitoring committee would visit the location, conduct an inquiry and seize the materials along with evidence, which would be submitted to the returning officers. If necessary, a case would be registered and details displayed on the notice board of the returning officer for public viewing. 

All items seized by the flying squad teams and violation of the election code of conduct would be recorded in the daily report and submitted to the Election Commission.

District Revenue Officer A. Poongothai, returning officers and other officials were present.