SHILLONG: The model code of conduct for the upcoming district council elections does not restrict the State Government from launching new schemes. The restriction applies only to schemes concerning the Autonomous District Councils (ADCs).
The model code of conduct would come into effect on February 5 and apply till the completion of the election process.
Briefing political parties and aspiring candidates on the electioneering process ahead of the KHADC polls, Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Sanjay Goyal on Monday said that the schemes of the district councils will have to be stopped including those to be initiated by MLAs contesting in the district council polls.
“The model code of conduct also states that the government would issue necessary regulations for MLAs contesting in the district council elections to ensure free and fair polls,” Goyal added.
With the restriction applying only to schemes concerning the ADCs, the Congress-led government can lure voters in both the KHADC and JHADC by announcing new schemes, feel political observers. Goyal also informed that the limit of election expenses for the candidates has been raised to Rs 2.5 lakh and the candidates have to pay a security deposit of Rs 2,500.
Each candidate can file four nomination papers along with one proposer whose name is enrolled in the district council. Informing that the final list of polling stations will be furnished to the political parties as and when approved by the concerned authority Goyal said that the number of polling stations has increased from 455 to 550.