Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Apr 28: “As many as 34 candidates have been finalised to contest from Udupi district,” informed district commissioner Priyanka Mary Francis in a press meet held at DC conference hall Rajathadri, Manipal here on Friday, April 27.

Speaking to media, the DC revealed the number of candidates from each constituency. She also said that three candidates Ramesh Marakala (Udupi), Lakshmivara Theertha Swamiji (Udupi), and Mahammed Sharif (Karkala) had withdrew their nomination. The rejected candidates were Madan (Byndoor), Kiran Kumar Kodgi (Kundapur), Satish salian (Karkala), and Sayyad Asad.

“Three observers have been appointed for the five assembly constituencies. The total polling booths are 1,103 in Udupi district, ballot units are 1,437, total control units are 1,315 and total VVPAT machines are 1,381,” she said.

“The first phase of randomization of EVMs and VVPATs was held on April 24 in the presence of political parties. They are kept in the security room of respective constituencies. The second phase of randomization will be held on April 28 with presence of Election General Vigilance and political parties at the DC’s office,” she informed.

Revealing other details, the DC said, “About 27 cases have been registered in four constituencies regarding violation of election code of conduct. The amount of cash seized Rs 70,04,650 and returned amount was Rs 4,45,340 from Byndoor, seized amount was Rs 7,20,310 and returned amount was 7,20,310 in Kundapur, seized amount was Rs 59,000 in Udupi and was released later, and seized amount was Rs 14,98,070 in Kaup and returned amount was Rs 1,51,100. No cases were reported in Karkala. In total, Rs 92,82,130 cash was seized.”