EC issues directions for polling day in Punjab

Chandigarh, Feb 12 (UNI) The Election Commission (EC) has directed that no booth of any candidate or party shall be set up within a distance of 200 meters from the polling station.

According to a set of instructions on preventive measures issued here today by the EC, only one table and two chairs shall be provided at each such booth with an umbrella or a piece of tarpaulin or cloth to protect the two occupants of those chairs at the booth from weather conditions.

Such booth shall not be enclosed by 'kanats' or tentage etc.

A candidate wishing to set up booths would have to get the clearance from the concerned returning officer. A written permission from the returning officer must be available with the persons incharge of the booth for production before the police/ election authorities concerned on demand.

Such booths, as per these instructions, shall be used only for the sole purpose of issuing unofficial identity slips to electors. These unofficial slips shall be printed strictly in accordance with the instructions of the Commission on the subject without the name or symbol of the candidate or the name of the political party.

Only the banner to display the name of the candidate, his party and the election symbol allotted to him will be allowed at each such booth, provided that such banner shall not be more than three feet by four feet in length and breadth.

Any banner set up in violation of this restriction will be removed by authorities maintaining the law and order.

According to the instructions, no crowds shall be allowed to collect at such booths in any circumstances, nor shall any person who has already cast his vote at the polling station be allowed to come to the booth.

This would be evident from the indelible ink mark on his left forefinger or any other finger as specifically prescribed for that election for the constituency in which the polling station is located.

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