Model code of conduct relaxed in Maharashtra

Model code of conduct relaxed in Maharashtra

 

 

WITH the polling for last phase of Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra over, model code of  conduct has been relaxed in State This has paved the way for the State Government to clear pending decisions and expedite implementation of various projects.
Confirming this development to "The Hitavada Chief Secretary J S Saharia said that the Stale Government had sought relaxation in model code of conduct from F.lccikin Commission of India. "We have received communication regarding relaxation. and from Monday we can begin almost regular functioning of the Government," he said on Sunday evening.
Due to model code of conduct in force for Lok Sabha elections. regular functioning of the State Government had come to a standstill. To clear even the time-bound files, the Government machinery had to seek approval of Election Commission of India. Lok Sabha elections were held for 48 seals in Maharashtra, in three phases. In the first phase, polling was held on April 10 for 10 seals in Vidarbha; for 19 seats each on April 17 and April 24. Following die complaints, repoll was held at a few places on Sunday (April 27).

Even before the polling for the third phase of elections in Maharashtra on April 24, several ministers and legislators had been demanding relaxation in model code of conduct so that important works could be cleared through decisions. The demand gained strength as the State would have (o wail (ill May 28. when die model code of conduct would cease to be in force. As the State Legislature's Budget Session is M'heduled to commence from June 2. waiting for model code of  conduct to end would have left only three-four days for preparations. As the Budget Session requires preparations at various levels including the advance replies to various issues raised through regular legislative Bob, and discussion ahead of taking certain policy decisions, the period of only three-four days would be too less.

Besides, Legislative Assembly elections are scheduled later this year in September. Before that. Slate Government had planned to make several announcements.

However. Lok Sabha elections and model code of conduct had left very little period in hand for the purpose. Against this backdrop, the Government had approached the Election Commission of India and Chief Electoral Officer of Maharashtra seeking relaxation of the model code of conduct. With polling for all 48 seats held till Sunday, the relaxation v.as granted.

Anticipating the relaxation, the Government officers had already started sending letters to administrative authorities of various departments across the Slate, and asking them to send status report on different matters, as well as compile information for Cabinet meetings to he held in near future

Posted in: News 2014