Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JS/EP)

Udupi, April 6: The ACMC committee of Udupi district administration held a training session at Udupi Patrika Bhavan in association with Zilla Karyaniratha Patrakartara Sangha for journalists during the election model code of conduct on Thursday.

Udupi deputy commissioner Kurma Rao M said that religious and social programmes should not be a tool for politics. “Approval of 48 hours in advance is essential for publishing poll advertisements. Social media is being watched 24 hours and matters that influence candidates and elections are being inspected,” he said.

SP Akshay Machindra Hakey said that checkposts have been erected to prevent violations during elections. “Surprise raids are being conducted at some places. Big godowns and buildings are being raided and inspected to check if a large number of goods are stored in them. Rs 48.50 lacs in cash was found without documents and have been seized so far.  6,000 litres of liquor has been confiscated. Rice that was being transported illegally has also been seized,” he said.

“Contents coming on social media is being watched through cells set up in the SP office. Votes cannot be sought in the name of religion, caste, community and language,” he said.

Udupi district chief panchayat officer Prasanna H spoke. Resource person Ashok Kamath gave details about the model code of conduct. Udupi district Karyaniratha Patrakartara Sangha president Rajesh Shetty Alevoor, treasurer Umesh Marpalli were on the dais.

Udupi district spokesperson Manjunath welcomed and compered the programme. Udupi district Karyaniratha Patrakartara Sangha chief secretary Nazir Pollya rendered the vote of thanks.