Election observers to keep eye on poll expenditure

In order to ensure free and fair elections, election observers will keenly observe the election-related expenditures made by the political parties and candidates, said Kodagu-Mysuru Lok Sabha Election Expenditure Observer Sandeep Kumar Mishra.

Chairing a meeting of election nodal officers at the DC’s office hall in Madikeri on Friday, he said that all officials must work as one team.

“The directions issued by the Election Commission of India should be strictly adhered to. Elaborate inspection should be carried out at the check-posts,” he said.

Stating that the flying squads, static surveillance teams and other teams will ensure proper implementation of the model code of conduct, Sandeep Kumar Mishra further said that the violations should be reported from time to time.

“The banks are bound to follow RBI regulations on the transfer of money between the accounts. Large amount of money transfers in the recent past will be under scrutiny. The commercial taxes department officials are given the responsibility of initiating action against illegal transportation of money and other valuables. The bank officials will observe the transactions in the accounts which are not linked to PAN. Suspicious activities will be reported for further action,” he added.

Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer Annies Kanmani Joy, Superintendent of Police Dr Suman D Pennekar, SVEEP Committee Chairperson and Zilla Panchayat CEO K Lakshmi Priya, Additional Deputy Commissioner T Yogesh and Assistant Returning Officer T Javaregowda were present.