Making it clear that every one should follow the election code of conduct, chief election commissioner (CEC) VS Sampath suggested all the candidates, political parties and government officials to carefully study the model code of conduct which is available in the website.
During a brief interaction with media persons, Sampath, who arrived here on Saturday for having Darshan of the Lord, maintained that the election commission considered all relevant aspects while preparing the schedule. We have decided to conduct polls in nine phases keeping in view the examinations, local festivals, seasonal conditions and security and all other aspects, he said.
The model code of conduct is aimed at creating awareness among political parties and candidates against luring voters by offering money and on other grounds, he said and added that that the code will also restrict the government from drawing unfair advantage by taking up new projects before the elections.
Earlier, the CEC had Laghu Darshan of Lord Venkateswara like any other common pilgrim and offered prayers to presiding deity inside the temple.
At the entrance of the temple, he was accorded a warm welcome by TTD JEO KS Srinivasa Raju and temple priests.
After offering prayers, Vedic Pundits rendered Vedasirvachanam to the CEC at Ranganayakula Mandapam. Later, TTD JEO offered prasadams to Sampath.
Chittoor district collector K Ramgopal, TTD deputy executive officers Chinnamgari Ramana, Venkataiah, OSD Damodar and other officials were also present.