NT Reporter
Margao
South Goa Collector Egna Cleetus on Monday imposed a series of restrictions across the Ponda assembly constituency, including a ban on unlawful assembly of more than five persons and all processions or rallies.
The measures will remain in force from 6 pm on April 7 to 6 pm on April 9, the scheduled polling day of the by-election.
The order was issued following directions of the Election Commission of India and “is aimed at preventing political confrontation, violence, bribery, undue influence and breaches of peace in the run-up to polling.”
“During the 48-hour period before the close of polls, public meetings, rallies, processions, musical events and any form of election campaigning will be prohibited, in line with Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Unlawful assembly of more than five persons and all processions or rallies will also be banned,” the order said.
The order clarified that there is no restrictions on door-to-door campaigning during these 48 hours.
Stating that gatherings at hotels, restaurants, tea shops, pan shops and other eateries near polling stations could create nuisance and law and order problems, Cleetus said, “No election booths (temporary offices) will be allowed within 100m of a polling station entrance during this bye-election of the Ponda constituency.”
She further barred the use of loudspeakers for election purposes during this period.
“Campaign vehicles previously permitted to contest candidates will not be allowed on roads, except those specifically authorised by returning officers on polling day. Private vehicles will be subject to inspection to prevent misuse for distribution of cash, gifts or liquor. Liquor shops, hotels, restaurants, clubs and other establishments serving alcohol have been directed not to sell or serve liquor during the restricted period. Storage of liquor by individuals will also be closely monitored under excise rules,” the order said.
Officials on election duty, including polling personnel, magistrates and police officers, are exempted from these restrictions.
