Bike rallies under EC scanner

Bike rallies held by the political parties have come under the scanner of the Election Commission (EC) with complaints pouring in over expenses incurred for such road shows.

Candidates have been crisscrossing the constituencies holding bike rallies with hundreds of their supporters by shelling out huge sums. There have been several complaints pertaining to bike rallies like bikers not wearing helmets, expenses on their utilities like fuel, accessories, flags, T-shirts and honorarium for riders.

In this connection, as many as 20 bikes have been seized in Bengaluru for violating rules laid down by the EC.

“Political parties generally seek prior permission for bike rallies. But we have found that the number of vehicles being used exceeds the permitted number. In such cases, authorities register cases,” said Lokesh, election commissioner, addressing the media.

He added, “We have seized 20 bikes used in a recent bike rally in Sarvagnanagar. The bikes will not be returned until the elections are over.”

Ambulances under scrutiny

Taking no chances, the EC has ordered the inspection of ambulances and other government vehicles on election day across Karnataka.

“There have been many incidents in the past where these vehicles were used for malpractices such as transporting money during the election. We have directed the squads to keep a strict watch on these vehicles this time,” said Munish Moudgil, commissioner, survey, settlement and land records who has been appointed as a special officer (enforcement) with the BBMP for daily monitoring activities of static surveillance teams, flying squads, excise and other enforcement teams.

Election Commissioner Lokesh said the next three days will be micromanaged to prevent irregularities.

“Tough action will be taken against negligent officers and staff who are on election duty,” he said. He pointed out that any action that threatens election sanctity will not be tolerated.