Ghatshila by-election: Strict adherence to model code essential for free and fair polls, says DC Karn Satyarthi

Jamshedpur: In view of the upcoming Ghatshila Assembly by-election 2025, a meeting with representatives of political parties was held at the Collectorate Auditorium under the chairmanship of District Election Officer and Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi. The meeting aimed to ensure strict compliance with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and to maintain fairness, transparency, and peace during the entire election process.

Addressing the representatives, District Election Officer Karn Satyarthi informed them about the key provisions of the Model Code of Conduct, which came into effect immediately after the announcement of the by-election. He urged all political parties and candidates to cooperate with the administration to ensure free and fair elections in accordance with the Election Commission’s guidelines.

The District Election Officer emphasized that prior permission is mandatory for organizing any public meetings, processions, or rallies. Written consent from property owners must be obtained before displaying posters, banners, or hoardings. He added that permission for campaign vehicles is compulsory, and social media accounts used for campaigning must be verified. Digital or online campaign materials should be released only after certification by the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC).

He appealed to all political parties not to influence voters on the basis of religion, caste, language, or community. Displaying posters or banners on government buildings, office premises, or public places without permission is strictly prohibited. The distribution of money, liquor, gifts, or any other items to attract voters is completely banned.

The District Election Officer also stated that political parties or candidates must not use government machinery, vehicles, or employees for election purposes. He advised everyone to avoid making derogatory or provocative statements against any candidate or party. He informed that the monitoring of Model Code of Conduct violations would be carried out through dedicated surveillance teams, flying squads, and the MCC monitoring cell.

The meeting was also attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Piyush Pandey, Additional District Magistrate (Law and Order) Bhagirath Prasad, District Transport Officer Dhananjay, Deputy Election Officer Priyanka Singh, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Dhalbhum) Chandrajit Singh, and District Public Relations Officer Panchanan Oraon, along with representatives of various political parties.

The District Election Officer called for the cooperation of all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, disciplined, and transparent electoral process in the Ghatshila Assembly by-election.