Bhatkal: Assistant Commissioner holds meeting with local political parties

Bhatkallys News Bureau/ Rizwan Gangavali

Bhatkal 10 April 2018: Ahead of Karnataka Assembly Election, Bhatkal Assistant Commissioner (AC) called a meeting of all political parties to provide a overview of election code of conduct at his office here on Monday April 09.

AC Siddeshwar N, who was recently transferred to Bhatkal in the backdrop of upcoming assembly elections, addressed the meeting and said that various precautionary measures have been taken to make sure the smooth running of the election that will be held on May 12. He further added that, the election centers have been divided into various sectors moreover, and for each sector an  Sector officer has been appointed. While several scouts have been appointed as a part of security arrangements.

Speaking about political campaigning he added "A prior permission has to be taken from electoral officer for holding any political meet, public addresses, bike rallies, usage of microphones for political campaign. Moreover, details of rallies and the vehicles used in it should be given to the officer while taking the permission. However, no government vehicles or any government office should be used for the election campaigning".

Any complaint or application can be submitted using 'Suvidha and 'Pramadha' apps online. "The election code of conduct has to be strictly followed else severe actions will be taken" he said

Vittal Naik, Bhatkal Block Congress President, raised strict objections claiming that several political parties were holding meetings in places like Honnavar, Kumta, Sirsi and Karwar without permission, to which the Assistant Commissioner assured of action to be initiated through appropriate channels.

Interestingly no representative from BJP took part in the meeting.

Manki Block Congress leader Chandrashekar Gowda, JDS leader Krishnanda Pai,  Bhatkal Block Congress President Vittal Naik, and others were present during the meeting.