Delhi EC cracks down against violation of model code

As part of efforts to ensure free and fair assembly polls, Delhi Election Commission has sought cooperation from neighbouring cities to check movement of money, liquor and musclemen.
Flying squads are keeping a vigil in the city against violation of model code of conduct for elections, including defacing public places with posters, and 200 FIRs have been registered in the last few days.
Delhi's Chief Electoral Officer Vijay Dev said the commission will hold a meeting within few days of senior administrative and police officials of neighbouring cities to seek their cooperation in the run up to December 4 vote.

"All aspects important for an election going state will be discussed. The issues related to flow of money and liquor, entry of muscle men, sealing of borders and people coming from bordering areas to votes in election will be discussed.
"A focus will be on printing presses operating from neighbouring cities. A joint campaign will be launched to put a curb on all these misconducts. The campaign will be launched after formulating a definite strategy," said Dev.
He said the Election Commission's prime focus is on strict implementation of the model code of conduct, which was enforced on October 4 with announcement of the election date.

"Our entire machinery is working to implement the code strictly. Earlier, we conducted a sensitisation workshop on the Model Code of Conduct for all political parties and appealed them to cooperate with us," said Dev.

"Flying squads are keeping a vigil in the city. We have taken strict enforcement measures wherever we have found violations. Hoardings and banners put through public funding have already been removed," he said.
A drive against those who stick posters and banners and deface the city is on. In the last few days, 200 FIRs have been registered against such violators. Besides that many non-cognisable cases have also been filed.

Dev said all printing presses should comply with section 127A of the Representation of the People Act and publish their names and addresses on the banners and hoardings and. In case of violations, criminal prosecution is being initiated against the offenders.
"Our message is loud and clear. Do not deface the city or strict actions will be taken against you," said Dev.