The District Election Officer of South West Khasi Hills has issued instructions to prevent large scale gatherings (other than election rallies) under the guise of being parties or get-togethers from influencing voters ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha election.
In a release today, the DEO said that places such as community halls and marriage halls are often utilised for the distribution of gifts, food, etc to induce voters.
The DEO has thus issued instructions as per guidelines to prevent “fake parties” and large-scale feeding or serving of food, which can influence voters.
Such activities could be construed as a corrupt practice and electoral offence under the Representation of the People’s Act and Indian Penal Code. However, serving of drinking water at election rallies would not be considered as bribery, the release added.
Meanwhile, the DEO has also informed that, in light of the general election taking place in Meghalaya on April 19, a round-the-clock call centre has been activated in the control room of the office of the Deputy Commissioner. Any person seeking information or having any complaint on election-related matters can call on the toll-free helpline 1950 or control room number 03656 296001.
