Poll panel lists 12 alternatives to EPIC

Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner Sasikanth Senthil said that those who are not in possession of Electors’ Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) can utilise 12 alternative photo documents approved by the Election Commission to exercise their franchise.

He said that documents approved by the Election Commission included passport, driving licence, service identity card issued to its employees by either the State and Central Government or Public Sector Undertakings.

Other valid documents that could be used as a substitute for EPIC include passbooks issued by the banks and post offices affixed with photographs, PAN card, RGI/NPR smart card, MNREGA job card, health insurance scheme smart card, voter slip issued by Election Commission, identity card issued for the MLA/MP, and Aadhaar card.

Deputy Commissioner Sasikanth Senthil said that paramilitary forces have been sent to Dakshina Kannada district for security purposes during the election. More than 3,000 personnel of paramilitary forces have been deployed in the district.

Speaking to reporters, he said 25 company of paramilitary forces have been deployed in the district. They will provide security in a majority of the polling booths in the district. In addition, KSRP, Rapid Action Force, and DAR personnel have been deployed.

He appealed to the citizens to cooperate with the paramilitary forces and ensure that no untoward incidents occur in the district.

The DC said that voters have sought the services of jeeps to reach the polling stations in a few areas. As per the guidelines, jeeps cannot be used. Efforts are being made to deploy buses in a few areas to help the voters in reaching the polling booths. Separate transportation arrangements have been made to ferry physically challenged persons to the polling stations.

On illegalities related to the election, the Samadhan portal has received 182 complaints so far of which, 177 have been disposed of. A total of 22 FIRs have been filed.

Dry days

Dry days has been declared in the district from 6 pm on May 10 till 6 pm on May 12 and from 6 pm on May 14 till midnight on May 15. Sale of liquor during the period is prohibited.

For any queries on the election, public can contact the election control room toll-free number 1800-425-2099, a press release stated.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Vaishali was present.