Pune District Collector Emphasizes Model Code of Conduct Implementation Following Election Commission’s Announcement

Pune, 16th March 2024: The Election Commission of India has officially declared the schedule for the Lok Sabha Election, prompting immediate action from local self-government bodies to enforce the model code of conduct in their respective areas. Pune District Collector Dr Suhas Diwase emphasized this directive during a televised meeting at the Pune Collector’s Office focused on the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct. The meeting saw the participation of the Election Returning Officer for the Shirur Lok Sabha Constituency, Ajay More, Deputy District Election Officer Meenal Kalaskar, and Deputy Collector Bhausaheb Galande.

Dr Diwase outlined that the election model code of conduct has been put into effect and will remain enforced until June 6. Notably, voting in the district will occur in two phases. Immediate actions were urged, including the removal of posters, flags, cutouts, and messages from government and semi-government offices, and public spaces, with a mandated submission of reports within 24 hours. Additionally, painted advertisements on walls were to be eradicated promptly.

Further instructions entailed the removal of murals or messages from unauthorized locations within 48 hours, with strict enforcement against advertising on private property without permission. Dr Diwase emphasized the imperative of adhering to the Election Model Code of Conduct, highlighting the necessity of swift action on complaints received via the ‘C-Vigil’ app.

Ensuring fairness in political advertising, it was mandated that all parties be given equal opportunities for billboard advertisements within the Pune Municipal Corporation and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation area, with expenditures duly recorded. Measures were directed to provide equal opportunities for all political parties to convene meetings at designated locations, with strict prohibitions against advertisements on unauthorized vehicles.

Dr Diwase stressed the importance of transparent and inclusive election processes, acknowledging the diligent efforts undertaken for the past three months in terms of voter registration and public awareness campaigns. He urged continued dedication to maintaining transparency and openness throughout the election proceedings.

The meeting was attended by Assistant Election Officers and Code of Conduct Coordinating Officers from all Assembly constituencies within the district, underscoring the collaborative effort required for effective implementation.