Revenue and police officials have stepped up vigil and vehicle checks across the city in view of the by-election for the Srirangam Assembly constituency scheduled to be held on February 13.
District Collector K.S.Palanisami, who inspected vehicle checks being conducted near the Kudamuritti River in the city on Friday, said in a press release that flying squad, static and surveillance teams were maintaining a round-the-clock vigil to ensure enforcement of the election code of conduct.
Regular vehicle checks were being conducted at check-posts at Pettavaithalai, Kudamuritti and Thiruvanaikovil to check for transport of cash, sarees, dhoties or any other gift items to be distributed to voters.
During the inspection, Mr.Palanisami instructed the officials at the check-post to maintain the register of checked vehicles including the vehicle number and time of checks.
He told the officers to carry out the checks without causing any inconvenience to travellers.
The Collector has also issued detailed guidelines for political parties and contesting candidates to follow in view of the by-poll. Public meetings should be held only after obtaining permission from the police through the Returning Officer.
Permission should also be obtained for use of loud speakers. Loud speakers should not be used prior to 6 a.m. and after 10 p.m.
Timings and routes of rallies should be given in advance and permission obtained from the police.
Parties and candidates should not indulge in personal attacks and refrain from instigating religions, communal or linguistic sentiments, Mr.Palanisami said.
