JOWAI/NONGSTOIN/NONGPOH: With the model code of conduct and other instructions of the Election Commission becoming operative in the State after the announcement of the date of election slated on February 27, the District Magistrate of West Jaintia Hills has issued an order prohibiting defacement of public properties by all contesting or agents or political parties.
It is also informed that the timing for using loudspeakers for election meetings is fixed from 6 am to 10 pm. For holding rallies and procession, a written order from the District Magistrate and subsequently from the local headmen is required. The District Magistrate has also prohibited any person from carrying cash above Rs. 50,000.
The order will come into force with immediate effect and will remain in force till March 5.
In East Garo Hills, the District Election Officer of East Ram Kumar S issued a notification to all govt departments, political parties, contesting candidates and others on the need to adhere to the Model Code of Conduct and other instructions of the Election Commission of India from January 18.
Section 144 in WKH
The District Magistrate West Khasi Hills District, Nongstoin has imposed an order under 144 CrPc in the whole district prohibiting carrying of licensed arms and other lethal weapons including indulging in any kind of activity by any member of the public that may vitiate the smooth, free and fair conduct of elections.
In Nongpoh, the District Election Officer, Ri Bhoi District has informed the public including schools, colleges, NGOs, youth clubs, SHGs, mother’s Union or any public or private organisation that they must take prior permission from the office of the Deputy Commissioner / District Election Officer, Ri Bhoi if any probable candidate known to be willing to contest the upcoming polls, their election agent, party officials/functionaries/representatives of political parties invited at any function of gathering as a chief guest, guest of honour, speaker or in any other capacity and address the public.
If they fail to do so action will be taken against the organisers as per appropriate legal provisions, the statement said.
To ensure free and fair elections in the district, as per section 171 of the Indian Penal Code, any person giving or accepting any gratification in cash or kind during election process, with a view to induce the person to exercise his electoral right is punishable with imprisonment up to one year or with fine or both, the statement added.
