Thiruvananthapuram, 16 March (H.S.): The formal process for the Kerala Legislative Assembly elections will begin on Monday with the Election Commission set to issue the official notification for the polls. Along with Kerala, election notifications will also be issued today for the Assembly elections in Assam and the Union Territory of Puducherry.
Following the announcement of the election schedule by the Election Commission of India, the Model Code of Conduct has already come into force in the poll-bound states. The code will remain in effect until the completion of the election process and is intended to ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates during the campaign period.
Meanwhile, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Kerala, Rathan U. Kelkar, has convened a meeting of representatives of recognised political parties in the state. The meeting is scheduled to be held in Thiruvananthapuram at 3 p.m. today. During the meeting, election officials are expected to brief party representatives about the Model Code of Conduct and various guidelines to be followed throughout the election period.
Officials said the meeting will also address logistical and procedural aspects of the election process and clarify the responsibilities of political parties, candidates, and the general public during the polling season.
The Chief Electoral Officer stated that Kerala is fully prepared to conduct the Assembly elections smoothly and efficiently. As part of the preparatory measures, Kelkar has already held discussions with the State Police Chief regarding security arrangements for the polls.
Issues such as maintaining law and order, identifying sensitive and vulnerable polling areas, and ensuring adequate deployment of security personnel were discussed during the meeting. The CEO has also submitted a detailed report to the Election Commission of India regarding sensitive polling booths and the proposed deployment of Central Armed Police Forces to ensure peaceful voting.
Election authorities said additional guidelines for voters and the public will also be explained as part of the awareness initiatives ahead of the polling day.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
