The print, electronic, websites and other news platforms have to remain alert as some news are being picked up and converted into ‘fake news’ as per the complaints received, said Chhattisgarh Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Subrat Sahoo while briefing the media on Monday.
The concerned media should register the complaint by filing FIR and also with Office of Chief Electoral Officer, he said.
The fake news are being circulated after editing the news item and spread through social media, he added but refused to name the complainant or provide details of the incident. He said it is a warning to all concerned media so that it can remain alert.
Sahoo reiterated that Election Commission of India would take suo moto action cognizance if any such incident comes to light.
On query of transfer of officials just before MCC, Sahoo said district collectors have been clearly directed to take written permission before any decision is taken. The General Administration Department has also given direction on the issue. On awarding IPS to State Service police officials, he said status quo has been maintained in the posting even after awarding the IPS, so there is no issue.
He further said that in each Assembly constituency, three flying squads have been constituted and provided vehicles with facility for videography so that complaints can be attended immediately.
On directives given to political parties, Sahoo said, “Political parties have been clearly instructed to depute their local Booth Level Agent with Booth Level Officer during distribution of voter’s slip to avoid any canvassing or misuse. Generally, it has been found that local public representatives accompany which has led to large number of complaints.”
All the hoardings are to be removed within 72 hours, said CEO while more than 1.34 lakh such hoardings in state have been removed till date.
He said complaints against two collectors have been received; the final decision has not been taken by ECI. At present, based on complaints , probe officials have been suspended at Durg and Janjgir-Champa districts.