New Delhi: Election Commission eases COVID curbs citing ‘substantial reduction’ of the cases reported across the country. “
As per information received from the Union Health Secretary the ground situation of COVID has significantly improved and the cases are fast receding in the country,” the Commission said in a statement while announcing relaxations for political parties.
Under the ease, poll camapaigns could now be held between 6 am to 10 pm. Ban on Padyatra is erased and parties could now organize padyatra with a limited number of persons as permitted by the district authorities. Political parties/candidates may hold their meetings and rallies up to a maximum of 50% of the capacity of the designated open spaces or the limit prescribed by State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMA), whichever is lesser, the polling chief said.
Meanwhile, other existing provisions related to electioneering shall continue to operate.The commission took a periodic review of the Covid-19 pandemic status in the country, especially in the poll-bound states.
Citing the rise in COVID-19 cases, the poll body had imposed a ban on physical rallies, roadshows and padayatras when it announced the poll schedule for Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa, Punjab and Manipur on January 8.