BJP violates poll code big time in Karnataka

Original Report

The BJP continues to top the list of cases filed for violation of the model code of conduct, Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer M N Vidhyashankar said today.

Talking to newspersons here, he said that of the total 406 cases filed, the BJP topped with 125 cases, followed by the Congress (103) and Janata Dal-Secular (60), BSP (11), CPI (4), NCP (1) and others 102.

He said Rs 22.65 crore in cash had been seized, with the richest haul being Rs 15.66 crore recovered from Bellary Lok Sabha constituency, where Minister Janardhan Reddy's sister Shanthamma is in the fray. Rs 1.66 crore was seized from Shimoga Lok Sabha constituency, where former Chief Minister S Bangarappa and Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa's son B Y Raghavendra were locking horns.

Mr Vidhyashankar said for the first time in the country, 'Suscepitble Area Management System' was introduced in Karnataka to prevent luring of voters with money, liquor and other things during the elections. Under the system, a team of one police officer and one non-police official would be attending calls from the public. The team would be on the spot within five minuts in urban areas and would take ten minutes in rural areas.

He said as many as 120 teams have been formed in Mysore Lok Sabha constituency. Similar teams would be formed across the State for the first and second phase of elections on April 23 and 30.

Regarding the Election Commission's announcement of reward to those informing about liquor transporation, Mr Vidhyashankar said the Deputy Commissioners have been entrusted with the task of suitably rewarding such informers. However, the reward amount would not be disclosed.

Earlier, Mr Vidyashankar held a meeting to review the poll preparations in Mysore and Chamarajanagara Lok Sabha constituencies.

He also held meetings with the party candidates and representatives, who have sought various relaxations in the election code.

He said as per the party candidates' request, a single window clearance for various permissions for vehicles and public meetings had been introduced in Mysore and Chamarjanagara Lok Sabha seats.

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