Election campaign to end today; Stricter regulations in place, CEO urges adherence to Code of Conduct

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Electoral Officer Sanjay Kaul has announced that the deadline for public campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections will end at 6 pm today and everyone must strictly adhere to the code of conduct. During the last 48 hours, when only silent campaigning is allowed, action will be taken under Section 144 of the Criminal Code against illegal assemblies or public meetings.

Under Rule 135C of the Representation of the People Act, a ban has been imposed on the distribution and sale of liquor for 48 hours until the end of polling.

The use of loudspeakers, as well as the organization of processions or demonstrations, is prohibited. Additionally, films, television programs, advertisements, music programs, plays and other similar exhibitions as well as opinion polls, poll surveys, and exit polls which could influence the outcome of the election, will not be allowed. Violators may face imprisonment, fines or both. Exit polls will be banned from the start of the first phase of polling until half an hour after the last phase of polling.

Party workers from outside the constituency will not be permitted to stay in the constituency. The ban on the display and carrying of licensed weapons will continue until the declaration of election results.

Polling for 20 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state will be held on the 26th from 7 am to 6 pm. Counting of votes is scheduled for June 4th.