Election Commission relaxes model code for drought relief work in Maharashtra

PUNE: The Election Commission of India (EC) has relaxed the model code of conduct rules to carry out drought relief measures in Maharashtra, but with the rider that no polling staff involved in the counting process on May 23 can accompany any minister during any tour for implementing such programmes.

The four-phase elections for the 48 Lok Sabha seats in the state concluded on April 29. The model code of conduct rules announced by the EC would be in effect till May 27. “The EC has issued a letter, relaxing the model code of conduct in the state for effective implementation of drought relief work,” a senior poll official said on Monday.
Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis had on April 30 forwarded a letter to the commission seeking relief of drought relief measures in the state after the four-phase elections ended. He had cited the severe heat spell and earlier instances of such requests being granted in accordance with the EC guidelines.
State chief secretary UPS Madan said the rest of the requests put forth by the CM on April 30 have been accepted by the EC. He told TOI: “The EC has said that they have no objection to any of the proposals put forth by the Maharashtra government because the state is reeling under drought conditions.”
In his letter, the CM had favoured infrastructure projects such as drilling bore wells, ensuring repair of the drinking water scheme and giving approval to the irrigation canal maintenance work.