Daijiworld Media Network – Shivamogga (EP)

Shivamogga, April 26: “May 10 has been declared a holiday at Jog Falls so that the voters may cast their votes without fail. But some voters are likely to avoid casting their vote and instead visit tourist spots by making use of the holiday. Therefore, visits to Jog falls are being prohibited on the day of polling,” said deputy commissioner Dr R Selvamani.

“The closure of Jog Falls is being enforced after looking into the past statistics of visitors to the world famous tourist spot - Jog Falls, on the day of elections. Media has drawn our attention to this connection. The Jog Falls management authority will have to remain on duty if tourists are not prohibited. Similarly, nearby traders, photographers, petty shopkeepers, guides, auto drivers and security staff are also likely to stay away from voting like a chain if Jog Falls remains open. Therefore a holiday has been ordered,” he said.

“If the staff working in the Jog falls management authority are away, they should cast votes without fail. Action is being taken so that everybody takes part in the election process. Everybody should know the need to use the holiday in the proper manner,” he said.