Bangalore : Chief Election Commissioner Sampath has said that all candidates contesting the forthcoming Assembly polls have been asked to open separate bank accounts to maintain election expenditure.
Speaking to reporters, he said candidates will be given cheque books also and that political parties have been told to avoid transaction in cash.
He said the EC will appoint observers to monitor the election related expenses of political parties. He directed officials deputed on poll duty to function in an unbiased manner and warned of action against those who are found to be favouring any political party.
He said police observers have also been appointed to see to it that political parties do not distribute cash, wine or sarees to lure voters. Candidates involving in such offences will have to face criminal proceedings under IPC Column 171.
Following a request by political parties, the EC has decided to open a single-window agency to grant permission for holding rallies, public meetings and use of helicopters for star campaigners. All requests of parties and candidates would be disposed off within 24 hours, Sampath said.
The Excise Commissioner has also been directed to ensure steps to prevent any abnormal movement of liquor from warehouses to retail stores. The CEC also stated that security would be tightened in border areas of the State to prevent illegal movement of cash and liquor.
