ECI dispels rumors of polls being postponed, asks administration to gear up for assembly polls

Mumbai: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday rejected Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackerays demand for postponement of the assembly elections citing time was needed for the administration to carry out relief and rehabilitation measures following the recent floods in Western Maharashtra. Addressing the review meeting called to take stock of the poll preparedness of the administrative machinery ECIs senior deputy commissioner Umesh Sinha called upon all the concerned machineries involved in the conduct of elections to get ready and strike coordination with each other to ensure successful conduct of the ensuing assembly elections.

It may be recalled that the MNS chief had recently urged the poll body to consider postponing the elections arguing that the model code of conduct would hamper the relief and rehabilitation measures in regions affected by recent floods. Sources disclosed that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) too was contemplating recommending to the Centre to postpone the elections arguing that the mismanagement in relief and rescue measures would adversely affect its poll chances and wanted more time to provide relief to the flood affected people.

The ECI however had clarified that there was no bar on carrying relief and rehabilitation measures. Sources disclosed that the poll body is likely to announce the assembly election schedule soon after the on-going Ganesh festival gets over on September 10, next week.

In an immediate clamp down on use of money and liquor to influence the election outcome, Sinha directed the poll machinery to ensure that during the election period candidates are encouraged to conduct all financial transactions above Rs 10,000 through digital payment or by cheque payment. He also directed the authorities to keep a watch on transport of cash and money transfer through Hawala route. Sinha called upon Banks to immediately inform the respective district collector of any cash withdrawal above Rs 10 lakh.

He further directed the authorities to strengthen their internal machinery and keep a watchful eye on poll expenses of candidates and use of any illegal cash. Sinha added that if any information is received in respect of use of illegal cash, the authorities should immediately conduct raids and seize such illegal cash. Referring to possible use of illegal cash and liquor to influence the election outcome, he said that the Income Tax, State Excise and Maharashtra GST department should immediately activate Toll Free and Whatsapp numbers and activate their control rooms.

Sinha added that these numbers should be given wide publicity in the media and social media for the benefit of the people. He said that the complaints made by the people on ECIs C-Vigil App should be immediately forwarded to the concerned departments for follow up action. The ECI deputy commissioner directed the Transport Commissioners office to ensure that the drivers of the vehicles requisitioned by the poll body are not denied their right to cast their vote and also implement a speedier process for giving clearances to vehicles used by candidates during election campaign period.