Six flying squads have been deployed to keep a tab on the violation of Model Code of Conduct in the district from Wednesday, informed District Election Officer-cum-Collector Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar while talking to mediapersons.
“In view of the model code of conduct in force for the elections, distribution of cash, liquor or any other items for gratification of voters is considered bribe. Both giving and taking bribe is a punishable offence with imprisonment upto one year besides fine,” Guha said.
Video surveillance teams and a static surveillance team besides six flying squads would keep a vigil on distribution of cash, liquor and other items in Jharsuguda and Brajrajnagar constituencies during the election. “Anybody found carrying `50,000 and above in cash while the model code of conduct is in force will have to produce a PAN card or other relevant documents to avoid seizure by the flying squads,” Guha said.