Election Commission Orders Halt on AP Govt Volunteers' Activities During Elections

In a significant move by the Election Commission, the Andhra Pradesh government's ward and village volunteers have been instructed to halt their activities, including the distribution of welfare benefits, during the election period. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Mukesh Kumar Meena announced this directive on Saturday, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

The Commission's order extends to prohibiting the state government from announcing the results of the Andhra Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Test (APTET) and conducting the Andhra Pradesh Teacher Recruitment Test (APTRT) while the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is in effect. This decision underscores the Election Commission's commitment to ensuring a fair and unbiased election.

Meena detailed that ward and village volunteers, integral to the Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy-led YSRCP government's decentralized governance delivery mechanism, are to refrain from engaging in government scheme extensions, pension disbursements, and similar activities. The volunteers, who are responsible for overseeing 50 households each, have also been instructed to deposit any government-issued cell phones, tabs, and other devices with their respective District Electoral Officers immediately.

The Election Commission has advised that government schemes should instead be delivered through alternative modes, such as by deploying government officials directly. This adjustment aims to prevent any potential misuse of resources or influence during the election period.

Andhra Pradesh is gearing up for elections to its 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats, scheduled for May 13. The counting of votes will take place on June 4, marking a crucial date for both the state and its political future. The Election Commission's recent directives are part of its broader efforts to ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted smoothly and without any undue influence.