Election Commission has given directives to district election officers regarding permission for mounting loudspeakers on vehicles during lok Sabha elections. Collectors and district election officers have been asked to ensure strict enforcement of these directives.
It has been said in the directives that loudspeakers can be used from 6 am to 11 pm in rural areas and 6 am to 10 pm in urban areas (within limits of municipal corporations and municipal councils).
The Commission has said that loudspeakers and machines attached to them will be seized if used beyond prescribed time-limit. If a political party or candidate wishes to mount loudspeakers on another person’s vehicle then they will have to seek permission for it by giving vehicle number which will be written in the permit. The commission has also said that permission for use of loudspeakers will be given by local administration while police will ensure that they are not used without permission.
The Commission urged political parties and candidates to use loudspeaker in such a way that it does not disturb studies of students. It has also directed to pay special attention to sensitive areas like hospitals while using loudspeakers.
Meanwhile, the state government has sent letter through Public Health and Family Welfare Department to all district collectors saying that all polling booths should be declared ‘no-smoking zone’. Notice boards saying ‘Smoking Prohibited’ should be installed at all polling booths.
It is noteworthy that the Central Government has banned smoking on public places and smoking at these places may entail fine of Rs 200. This order can be enforced by government servants upto inspector ranks and all senior officers.