<p>The polls were marred by allegations of luring voters with gifts in March 2009 following which former legislator and City-based advocate K N Subba Reddy had filed a petition in the High Court seeking directions for free and fair conduct of the poll. Justice N Kumar had suggested several measures including issue of smart cards to advocates. The suggestion was given effect to in 2009 itself.<br /><br />AAB president K N Puttegowda said the Association had amended its bylaw to ensure a free and fair poll. Accordingly, candidates will now have to file an affidavit before the returning officer undertaking that he or she will not indulge in any malpractice to influence voters.<br /><br /> The advocates have to produce smart cards before voting. The polling agent will verify the member’s details with the records made available to him. Only advocates practising in the City are entitled to cast their votes.<br /><br />Further, candidates contesting for the post of secretary should be members of the Association at least for ten years and those seeking election as treasurer should be members for a minimum of eight years. <br /><br />While four candidates are in the fray for the post of president, three are contending for the post of secretary and 22 for the post of treasurer.<br /></p>
<p>The polls were marred by allegations of luring voters with gifts in March 2009 following which former legislator and City-based advocate K N Subba Reddy had filed a petition in the High Court seeking directions for free and fair conduct of the poll. Justice N Kumar had suggested several measures including issue of smart cards to advocates. The suggestion was given effect to in 2009 itself.<br /><br />AAB president K N Puttegowda said the Association had amended its bylaw to ensure a free and fair poll. Accordingly, candidates will now have to file an affidavit before the returning officer undertaking that he or she will not indulge in any malpractice to influence voters.<br /><br /> The advocates have to produce smart cards before voting. The polling agent will verify the member’s details with the records made available to him. Only advocates practising in the City are entitled to cast their votes.<br /><br />Further, candidates contesting for the post of secretary should be members of the Association at least for ten years and those seeking election as treasurer should be members for a minimum of eight years. <br /><br />While four candidates are in the fray for the post of president, three are contending for the post of secretary and 22 for the post of treasurer.<br /></p>
