K. Veerbhadra Reddy, the expenditure observer appointed by the Central Election Commission to keep an eye on the campaign expenditure in connection with the Piravom Assembly by-election, held discussions with District Collector P.I. Sheikh Pareed at the collectorate on Friday.
He also met Election Deputy Collector S. Shanavas, returning officer E.R. Shobhana, and assistant returning officer M. Aravindakshan Nair. Mr. Reddy also visited the constituency.
Meanwhile, the hearing on applications received for inclusion in the voters' list will end on Saturday. The final list will be published on February 29.
No candidate contesting the election filed nomination on Friday, the third day for filing papers. So far, BJP candidate K.R. Rajagopal and an independent candidate K. Padmarajan have filed nominations.
District Collector P.I. Sheikh Pareed, who is also the district election officer, asked officials in the district to ensure the observance of the model code of conduct in letter and spirit. Representatives of political parties should be avoided in all government programmes. Their names should not be included in invitation letters.
While awareness programmes are permitted, inaugural ceremonies should be avoided. No officials except police persons entrusted with the security of top leaders should be present at political party meetings.
Rooms at government guest houses should not be let out for more than 48 hours to any one. While local bodies can present budgets, policy announcements should be deferred. Campaigns should not be held at public undertakings. Walls of government offices, including those of the collectorate, should not be used for graffiti.
Disruption of meetings
Mr. Pareed said that disrupting public meetings being held in connection with the campaign is an offence punishable with six months imprisonment or fine of up to Rs.2,000. This will be applicable to all meetings of candidates and political parties held in the constituency from the date of notification to the election date.
