In view of 16th lok Sabha’s elections, the Election Commission has directed district election officers to ensure strict vigilance on inter-State borders. The commission has said that apprehension of movement of suspicious persons and transportation of goods increase on inter-State border during elections.
To check this, concerning DEO should ensure intense vigil on inter-State check-posts. On finding suspected cash and goods, staff at check post will inform Income Tax Officers. The commission has formed teams of officers of Income Tax and Enforcement Directorate. According to the commission, vigilance staff should be extra alert about movement of fake currency and take strict action in this regard.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission has clarified about list of star campaigners during lok Sabha elections. According to the commission, a political party can submit different lists of star campaigners for different phases of election. Exemption in poll expenses’ inclusion in his account will be given to a star campaigner during the phase for which he has been enlisted. If the star campaigner campaigns for next phase, he will not be given this exemption.
If a political party sends list of star campaigners without mentioning any phase then leaders enlisted in it will be considered as star campaigners for all phases. In such a situation, concerning political party will be unable to change names of star campaigners.
EC directives
On the directives of Election Commission of India, lists of ROs and polling booths will be handed over to Post and Telegraph. In the earlier directives the commission has directed to provide addresses of 19 returning officers and polling booths regarding ballot papers. The commission wishes that prompt action is ensured in this regard so that necessary arrangements can be made for receiving and distributing ballot papers.