Election Model Code of Conduct Implemented in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu: As soon as the dates for the Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu were announced, the Model Code of Conduct came into force across the entire state starting Sunday evening (March 15).

The carrying of cash without supporting documents and the distribution of gifts to voters have been prohibited. Furthermore, statues of political leaders across Tamil Nadu have been covered with cloth. Political advertisements displayed on these statues are also being erased by painting over them. Advertisements highlighting the government’s achievements, which were displayed at bus stops and public places, have been removed. The Chief Minister’s photographs have been taken down from government offices. At the Secretariat, all advertisements detailing the government’s achievements have been removed. Additionally, the offices of ministers have been locked and ‘sealed.’

Similarly, the offices of MLAs, Lok Sabha members, Mayors, Deputy Mayors, Municipal Council Chairpersons, and local government leaders have also been sealed. Their official vehicles have been requisitioned for election duty.

Election officials have deployed a ‘Flying Squad,’ a ‘Static Surveillance Team,’ and a ‘Video Surveillance Team’ in every district; these teams are carrying out surveillance duties on a rotational basis. The Flying Squad will investigate complaints regarding violations of the rules. The surveillance teams will be tasked with monitoring and preventing the transportation of cash and gifts.

The Video Surveillance Team will be responsible for videographing public meetings, election campaigns, and rallies. Election officials have issued orders to take appropriate action against meetings and campaigns held without prior permission, and to seize any vehicles involved.

For the elections scheduled for April 23, more than 75,000 polling stations are to be established across Tamil Nadu. Election officials are currently engaged in making the necessary preparations for this undertaking.