How much cash you can carry in Punjab amid ongoing Lok Sabha elections? Check here
Chandigarh, May 17: With the model code of conduct in force in Punjab for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, Punjab Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sibin C advised citizens on Friday not to carry cash more than Rs 50,000 without supporting documents, such as bank withdrawal receipts and receipt books for traders, while travelling in the state.
During a second Facebook live session, 'Talk to your CEO Punjab’, Sibin C addressed various queries from voters and urged them to report any violations through the C-vigil app, the 1950 toll-free number and the National Grievance Service Portal (NGSP) of the ECI to ensure smooth and fair elections.
Replying to a query on carrying mobiles to polling booths, the CEO said that the Election Commission of India explicitly prohibits voters from carrying mobile phones and other communication gadgets inside polling booths on election days.
On another question about publicity by political parties, the CEO said flex boards and hoardings could only be placed at designated locations after seeking permission from the DEOs or the CEO's office till the MCC is in force.
The Chief Electoral Officer further said no political party or candidate could seek votes based on religion, as this was a clear violation of the MCC. He urged people to report such violations immediately via the C-vigil app, assuring that the CEO's office will take action against violators within 100 minutes.
A resident also thanked the CEO for deploying female staff on polling duty near their residences. The CEO said following the directions of the ECI, special attention had been given this time to appoint female staff at the nearest polling booths.
In response to a query regarding whether government employees can canvass for any political party or leader, the CEO unequivocally said that no government employee could campaign for political parties. Stern action would be initiated, including lodging an FIR against violators.
Amid rising temperatures, Sibin C said various initiatives had been taken to increase voter turnout and provide relief at polling stations from the heatwave. He said each polling station would have water coolers, fans, seating arrangements and sheds to provide relief to voters from the heat.
The CEO said there were a total of 2.14 crore registered voters, including 1.89 lakh voters aged 85 , 1,614 NRIs, 1.58 lakh PWD and 5.38 lakh first-time voters, who would cast their votes at 24,451 polling stations across the state on June 1.
- PTC NEWS
