Election Official Lays Down the Law for Political Parties in GHMC Limits

Hyderabad: Hyderabad district election officer and GHMC commissioner Ronald Rose on Tuesday requested political parties to cooperate for a smooth election, laying down the law and guidelines to be followed, at a meeting held on the GHMC headquarters premises.

Rose said: “The first level check of EVMs has been completed and they are secured at the Victory Playground. Awareness programmes about using EVMs have been conducted at 397 bus stations. Fifteen vans are also onducting awareness drives in 15 constituencies.”

Addressing representatives of political parties at the meeting, Rose warned of strict action against those indulging in insults, concerning language, religion and communities, under RP Act, 1951.

“No campaign should be conducted on the premises of mosques, churches and temples. Votes should not be asked on the basis of caste and religion. Political parties should not give valuable items to deceive voters, threaten voters and conduct campaign within hundred metres of polling stations,” he said.

The election official said that no public meeting should be held in the 48 hours preceding the election.

“Transport facilities should not be provided to voters. Dharnas and protests should not be organised, even at anyone's house. Flags, banners, posters and wall writing should not be done on land, building or compound without taking permissions,” he said.

Rose also directed political parties not to disturb meetings organised by their rivals. Further, he asked parties to refrain from holding meetings at the same location on the same day.

“To conduct meetings, install loudspeakers and organise rallies, political parties and candidates should get permission from the local police authority,” he said.