Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Mar 28: With the enforcement of election code of conduct with effect from March 27, the programmes like inauguration, laying of foundation stone, distribution of government facilities etc which the people's representatives had undertaken in a frenzy since the last some weeks, have come to a screeching halt. Political activities, in the meanwhile, have become brisk.

Political parties and people's representatives, who have felt the need for urgency infused by the enforcement of code of conduct, have begun to clear banners , posters, cut-outs, hoardings etc that had been installed everywhere either to announce about achievements or to congratulate or welcome leaders to indirectly gain some mileage. A large number of flexes that had been put up at various places announcing about the extraordinary performances and programmes of the government were dismantled by Tuesday evening. The ministers and legislators have stopped using government vehicles and begun using private vehicles. Puttur MLA, Shakuntala Shetty, gained some attention by opting to travel by bus instead of government car. 

Under instructions from deputy commissioners of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, employees of civic bodies as well as activists of some political parties were seen removing the banners. Banners pertaining to religious programmes too were brought down.  

Kaup MLA, Vinay Kumar Sorake, who was scheduled to lay foundation stone for certain projects at Belapu on Tuesday, cancelled the programme. Minister, Pramod Madhwaraj, who is away, asked his staff to return the government vehicle. He also cancelled the press conference scheduled for Wednesday. Karkala MLA, V Sunil Kumar, returned his car while Byndoor MLA, Gopal Poojary, who is at Bengaluru, would be handing back the government car today, it is learnt. 

The general session of Dakshina Kannada zilla panchayat was cut short after the date of election was announced on Tuesday. At around 12.10 pm, the officials announced that they have received instructions that no decisions could be taken by the body in view of election code of conduct.

The deputy commissioners have asked all the advertisements containing materials about government's achievements coupled with photos of individuals to be dismantled within 24 hours, with the warning that officials would be held responsible to ensure that this order is obeyed.