300 code violation complaints so far: CEO

Conveying this to newsmen here on Monday, Rajesh Lakhoni, Chief Electoral Officer said officials concerned have been instructed to act tough with code violation cases. They have also been told to keep a watch and prevent activities that violate the poll norms. 

Making it clear that assembly offices could not be kept open as the code has come into force, he said that work was on to remove pictures of political leaders from all public places.

Regarding surveillance on movement of cash, he said all vehicles would be thoroughly checked and cash without any valid documents would be seized.  Restrictions have also been imposed on announcement of new tenders, he said and added that permission for some essential activities like putting up water shed could be obtained from the election commission. 

Similarly, heads of government departments could approach the commission for any clarification regarding their day to day work. Apart from this, around 3 lakh officials across the state have been deployed on poll-related works. All arrangements for the May 16 elections are being reviewed directly by the CEO on a day-to-day basis. 

A meeting was held for the 64 district electoral officers in Chennai on Monday, where they were explained the measures and norms to be followed by them till the elections. All their doubts were also cleared by at the meeting. Lakhoni also gave some tips on how to handle their daily work releated to election process.

The CEO later speaking with reporters said public could report any malpractice that they come across by calling the number 9444123456 or dial 1950. Regarding the arrangements, he said that 90 per cent of the EVMs  have been checked.