The Election Commission (EC) has revised downwards the number of star campaigners whom recognised national and State political parties can use during the upcoming and future polls in the country during the coronavirus pandemic. As per the revised norms for star campaigners, a maximum limit of the number of star campaigners is fixed to 30 for recognised national/State political parties. For unrecognised registered political parties, the maximum limit is fixed 15.
Earlier, 40 star campaigners were allowed for recognised national/state political parties, while 20 were permitted for unrecognised registered political parties.
Accordingly, the period of submission of the list of star campaigners is extended from 7 days to 10 days from the date of notification. The battle lines are drawn for the Bihar assembly elections, with both major alliances announcing their seat sharing equations.
The EC further said that political parties, which have already submitted a list of star campaigners shall resubmit a revised list within the stipulated period.
According to the EC, requests for permission for the campaigning by star campaigners shall be submitted to the district election authorities at least 48 hours before the start of campaign so that all necessary safety measures are put in place by all concerned stakeholders well in time.
“Commission was also informed during the visit of Bihar about the matter of large gatherings during the visit of Star campaigners.
The clarifications were sought about the potential health concerns during such visits, especially huge crowd gathering during the landing of helicopters etc.
The matter was further deliberated in the poll body at Wednesday’s meeting.
After considering all facts and circumstances emerging due to pandemic and keeping a balance between the requirement of campaign by the political parties, the Commission has decided to revise the norms of Star Campaigners,” the EC said in a statement.