SEC assures strict implementation of model code

Chennai, Oct 11 (UNI) The State Election Commission (SEC) today gave an assurance before Madras High Court that it would strictly implement the polling officer guide issued by it and also the model code of conduct during the local body elections.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice A P Shah and Mr Justice K Chandru recorded the assurance given by Government Pleader (GP) Raja Kalifullah on behalf of the SEC and disposed of the Public Interest Litigation filed by AIADMK candidate N Bala Ganga.

Mr Ganga sought a direction for video recording the polling in sensitive booths and to prevent anybody not connected with the particular ward from entering polling booths and counting centres.

In its order, the bench said the GP appearing for the SEC brought to the court's notice that as per the polling officer guide issued by SEC and the model code of conduct issued by him, only authorised persons could enter the polling booth. The code provisions should be strictly implemented.

The GP had also stated that the guidelines relating to the circular dated September 26, 2006 and the minutes of the meeting with police officials dated September 13, 2006 would be strictly implemented. So, no further orders were necessary, the bench added and disposed of the petition.

UNI XR AA YA DB2044