'Action against TV channels influencing voters'

Deputy Commissioner Hephsiba Rani Korlapati warned of initiating strict action against cable channels telecasting programmes that are influencing the choices of voters.

“Opinion polls are being conducted where voters are confronted with direct questions like which party they are voting for?,” Korlapati said.

Cases will be registered against such TV channels violating model code of conduct, she added.

The Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) members are keeping a strict vigil on the social media platforms to detect any message with a potential of disrupt the prospects of free and fair elections, the deputy commissioner added.

Ban on liquor

Korlapati on Thursday issued orders related to ban on sale of liquor in Udupi district keeping in mind the elections to Udupi-Chikmagalur and Shimoga Lok Sabha seats on April 18 and April 23 respectively.

Accordingly, the ban on the sale of liquor will be in force from April 16 (6 pm onwards) until the midnight of April 18. The ban will be in force across the Udupi district.

In Byndoor and Kundapur taluks, which come under Shimoga Lok Sabha constituency, the ban will be in force from April 21 (6 pm) until the midnight of April 23.

‘Exemption sought’

Government employees from Chrisitian community have sought exemption from election duty on April 18, which coincides with Good Friday.

Karnataka Christian Welfare Association President Harry D’Souza said that the Association had given a representation to the State Election Commission. The Election Commission responding to their pleas has directed the deputy commissioners in each district to consider the request, he said.

D’Souza said that the administration should consider their appeals and exempt Christians from the election duty. He said the Association had also requested officials to shift the polling booths that are on the premises of the churches.

35 lakh population

There are more than 35 lakh Christians in the state, he said and sought political representation for members of the community.

“Christians should be considered for the MLC posts,” he added.