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EC satisfied over steps for Haryana polls

By Our Special Correspondent

CHANDIGARH, JAN.25. The full Election Commission, headed by the Chief Election Commissioner, T.S.Krishnamurthy, today expressed satisfaction over the arrangements for the Haryana Assembly elections on February 3.

Addressing a Press conference here this evening after holding meetings with representatives of political parties and bureaucrats including the Chief Secretary and the Director-General of Police, Mr.Krishnamurthy hoped that free and fair polls would be held in the State. The Commission has identified sensitive and hyper-sensitive areas where appropriate action would be taken.

Referring to complaints by some political parties that a few officials considered close to the ruling Indian National Lok Dal were openly violating the Model Code of Conduct, he said: "We will make necessary enquiries and take appropriate action.''

While expressing satisfaction that parole-jumpers were being rounded up, he said that some districts still needed to intensify their efforts in this regard. He reiterated that para-military forces would be deployed in the State to instil confidence and ensure that law and order prevailed. An Observer had been put in place in each constituency to report on political activity and monitor violation of Model Code of Conduct.

He said the Commission had decided to allow political parties to hoist their flags on building provided the owners did not object to it. However, any defacement of property would attract stringent action, he cautioned.

He said the district authorities have been asked to remain neutral and each Inspector General of Police heading the four Zones would be assisted by a Deputy Inspector General who would focus on sensitive areas. The CEC said the Commission was enquiring into release of supplements in a newspaper and a magazine and action would be taken against the State Government if it had funded the supplements.

Replying to a question on the statements by INLD leaders that the Chautala Government would make appointments between February 3 (the day of polling) and February 27 (when the results would be declared), Mr.Krishnamurthy asserted that the Commission would not allow such action. He flayed media persons for distorting Commission's stand on the Godhra issue.

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