Election Commission directs campaigns sans crowd in Kerala

The State Election Commission has strictly directed to avoid final-day campaigning usually held in a fervorous manner. Candidates are directed not to accompany any procession while filing nomination.

Thiruvananthapuram: The State Election Commission has directed strict compliance of COVID-19 guidelines during the upcoming local body elections in Kerala, while elaborating on the election protocol and the guidelines formed considering the COVID situation, here, on Wednesday.

During the polls amid the pandemic, all campaign activities must avoid programmes gathering people. Specific guidelines have been released for campaign activities including door to door visit and roadshows. Use of masks is mandatory for all election-related activities.

More than three persons are not allowed while filing the nomination for the polls. The candidate who reaches to file nominations will not be allowed to lead any procession. Only one vehicle will be allowed for the candidate to reach the place for filing nomination.

If the candidate is undergoing COVID quarantine or has been tested positive for COVID, he or she can file the nomination through a nominee. Not more than 30 persons are allowed in ward-level election meetings.

In the district level meetings, a maximum of 40 persons can participate. During door to door campaigning, more than 5 persons will not be permitted. The final day campaign which is usually held in a fervorous manner must be totally avoided.

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Only three vehicles will be allowed for roadshow as part of the campaign. Social media platforms are recommended instead of notices and pamphlets. As part of welcoming the candidates, garlands, bouquets, currency note garlands and shawls must not be used.

If any of the candidates contracts COVID during the election campaign, the candidate should immediately isolate and quarantine himself and stay away from all campaign activities, the guideline released by the SEC specifies.

All polling booths must be disinfected and sanitised on the day prior to the elections. During polls, only three persons would be allowed at a time inside the booth. The State Election Commission has formulated the guidelines and protocol after discussion with different political party representatives and Health department authorities.