ARO Chetan Bunger appeal political parties to follow model code of conduct

Ludhiana, March 20, 2024: With an aim to brief different political parties about the model code of conduct and to ensure its compliance during the Lok Sabha-2024 elections, Assistant Returning Officer (ARO- Ludhiana East) cum MC Joint Commissioner Chetan Bunger conducted a meeting with representatives of different political parties at MC Zone A office on Wednesday. 

ARO Chetan Bunger said that the meeting was held on the directions of District Election Officer (DEO) cum Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sawhney. 

Representatives of different parties including  Congress, BJP, AAP, BSP among others participated in the meeting.

ARO Bunger said that the representatives have been apprised that the political parties need to seek permission to run advertisements on electronic and social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter etc. The permissions have to be taken online. 

He stated that only pre- certified advertisements would be allowed and the political parties should take permission before issuing advertisements even if it is for social media. The expenditure on these advertisements would be added to the election expenditure account.

Similarly, all the pamphlets, posters and handbills etc. must carry the name of the publisher and printer. Besides, the number of printed copies and a declaration of the publisher must be submitted with all the information regarding the publication. 

ARO Chetan Bunger said that for organizing rallies or any other political activity, the political parties have to take all the permissions online and that too, 48 hours prior to the event.

Further, the political parties also need to obtain consent of the owners before installing posters, banners etc on private property and the consent letter should be submitted with the District Election Officer.

No religious place or school should be used for campaigning. 

ARO Bunger further said that civil administration and police are committed to ensure free, fair and transparent elections. The political parties have also been asked to submit any 'worry list', if something bothers them during the Lok Sabha elections.