The State Election Commission (SEC) on Thursday expressed concern over large public gatherings during the filing of nomination papers by candidates for the panchayat polls and asked the Director General of Police (DGP) to ensure strict enforcement of the Covid-19 guidelines during the different stages of the election process.
SEC Secretary RN Sahu wrote a letter to DGP Sunil Kumar Bansal reminding the latter that DSP-rank officers have been appointed as Covid observers in the districts to oversee adherence to the guidelines.
Stating that a greater number of candidates are expected to file nominations on the last day for the purpose on Friday, Sahu asked the DGP to issue instructions to SPs and Covid observers to ensure that large gatherings do not take place in public places.
According to the SEC’s guidelines, either the candidate or one proposer can enter the election officer’s office and maintain proper social distancing while filing the nomination papers. Only one vehicle is allowed for the purpose of filing nomination.
The SEC asked the district administrations to remove the hoardings, banners, posters, etc., from the Government buildings and other public places.
The SEC also ordered disengagement of the GRS of Purusottampur GP in Bhadrak district.
