Activities to be strictly monitored

With the model code of conduct in place, Deputy Commissioner Sanjay Shettennavar said activities of political parties and aspirants would be strictly monitored.

Addressing presspersons here on Tuesday, he said that a helpline number has been set up where people could inform and complain about violations. “They can call on 08352-251289 for any information of violations. Officials will take necessary action,” he said. He said that soon a WhatsApp number will also be shared where people can send information on any violation.

Till Tuesday, the total number of voters stood at 17.63 lakh, of them 9.06 lakh male, 8.56 lakh female, with 216 in the ‘Others’ category.

The district administration has set up 2,095 polling stations by deputing around 151 sector officers on poll duty. Though the administration decided to install CCTV cameras or deploy micro observers in hyper sensitive and sensitive polling booths, the number of such booths was yet to be identified. “We are in touch with the police department, which is helping us to identify such booths based on the previous record of violence. After that report, we will decide what type of precautionary measures are to be taken,” he said.

He said that directions have been issued to officials to construct ramps and ensure facilities such as toilets in all booths for physically challenged voters and polling staff.