Mangalore: New DC says the main focus on elections and creating awareness

By John V. Tauro
Bellevision Media Network

Mangalore, 29 Mar 2013: New deputy commissioner of Dakshina Kannada district Harsh Gupta on Friday March 29 said that he was happy to be back to the district, after having served as assistant commissioner of Puttur 13 years ago.

 

Addressing a press meet at the DC’s office here, he said that his transfer came about after the election commission shuffled several IAS officers in the wake of the upcoming Assembly elections.

 

"I took charge of my post last evening (Thursday March 28). Today I will hold discussions about the elections with other officers. The main focus will be on voters and ensuring compulsory voting. All logistics problems will be resolved," he said.

 

He also informed that April 7 is the last date to correct or enrol names in the voters list. "If names are repeated in the list, they should be deleted," he added.

 

 

 

Those who have names registered from more place than one should remove it by submitting form 7 to the returning officer.

 

"The election will be conducted in a scientific manner, like keeping eye on the expenditure of candidates, maintaining registers, use of video surveillance systems etc. Special officers have been appointed to monitor the election process," he said.

 

"A call centre has also been set up, and people can file their complaints by calling 1077," he added.

 

"Special importance has been given to Naxal-hit areas. Officers and squads will visit such areas and take care of the situation if there is any threat from the Naxals.

 

On incidents of poll code violation, he said two to three cases have been so far. He also warned that bogus voting is a violation of law and is considered a criminal offence. "The administration will concentrate on ensuring smooth, fair and transperant elections," he said, adding that those who violate rules will be strictly punished.

 

Though new works in the city will not be taken up due to election code of conduct, ongoing works will not be stopped, Gupta said.

 

Additional DC Dayanand, ZP CEO Dr K N Vijayprakash, and Mangalore City Corporation commissioner Harish Kumar were present.