Enforcement of code of conduct stepped up in Karnataka

Stepping up enforcement of the model code of conduct, flying squads and other teams in the State have removed 12,537 wall writings, 17,690 posters, and 7,711 banners from public properties.

According to a press release issued by Chief Electoral Officer Sanjiv Kumar, 104 cases have been booked against violators under the Karnataka Open Places (Provisions of Disfigurement) Act, 1981. As many as 6,866 wall writings, 7,949 posters, and 2,543 banners have been taken down, the release said.

While one FIR has been lodged for misuse of government vehicle and another for violation of the loudspeaker use rule, two FIRs have been lodged for holding meetings without permission. Another five FIRs were lodged for inducement and gratification of voters in 24 hours starting Friday, the release said.

The flying squads also seized ₹9,91,700 cash, 18.9 litres of liquor, eight silk saris, 2.4 grams of gold worth ₹49.17 lakh in the period. The Excise Department has seized 1,217 litres of liquor and booked 60 heinous cases, 42 cases for breach of licence conditions, and 148 cases under Section 15(a) of the Karnataka Excise Act, 1965. This apart, 8,633 firearms were deposited, one armed licence cancelled, and 255 non-bailable warrants executed in the 24-hour period, the release said.