Datia gears up for bypoll as MCC kicks In, poll preparations intensify

Bhopal: With the Election Commission announcing the Datia assembly bypoll and the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) coming into effect, the district administration has intensified election preparations, ordering a survey of all 291 polling stations to identify waterlogging and ensure repair works are completed before polling despite the ongoing monsoon.District election authorities have also cancelled all previously sanctioned leave of government employees, directing that no leave will be granted during the election period without the approval of the district election officer. Voting for the byelection will be held on July 30, which has been declared a paid public holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act.To strengthen election monitoring, officials have constituted a Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) to scrutinise political advertisements, paid news and election-related content published in newspapers and other media platforms.The administration has reiterated the Election Commission’s instructions requiring all government employees to remain politically neutral and refrain from participating in any election campaign or activity that could create an impression of partisanship.Comprehensive guidelines have also been issued for political rallies and public meetings. Candidates and political parties must obtain prior permission from the returning officer before holding public meetings, while separate approvals from the police will be mandatory for the use of venues, vehicles and loudspeakers.

The administration has warned political parties and their supporters against defacing public property with posters, banners, flags, graffiti or slogans, stating that violations will attract action under the Madhya Pradesh Prevention of Defacement of Property Act.Amid heightened political activity, restrictions have also been imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Political rallies, processions and public gatherings will require written permission from the returning officer at least 48 hours in advance, while carrying weapons, explosives and other hazardous materials during the election period has been prohibited. Officials said the measures are intended to ensure free, fair and peaceful polling.