BARPETA, March 13 � The Election Commission of India has initiated a number of steps to make the ensuing Assembly election in Assam a free and fair one. It will monitor the alleged distribution of cash and other items to lure voters in favour of certain candidates. As part of the process it has banned carrying of huge amount of cash by the public with immediate effect. The Barpeta district administration has also requested the people not to carry huge amount of cash during the election period withot proper documents showing the source and the end-use of the money.
A press release issued by the district election officer cum deputy commissioner of Barpeta stated that Distribution of cash , liquor or any other item for gratification of the voters is bribery and it punishable offence. Flying squads have been formed under each police station to keep watch over distribution of cash, liquor and other items in all the constituencies during the election.
The District Election Officer further informed that strict vigil would be kept on the expenditure of the candidates and they will have to maintain a day-to-day expenditure register which will be inspected by the Expenditure Observer during campaign period.
The publichas be requested to keep a vigilant eye in this respect and any one willing to see the expenditure can obtain a copy of the expenditure register by paying Re-1/ per page from the Returning Officer.
