Chandigarh: The Election Commission of India (ECI) today announced dates for polling in five regions of the Indian subcontinent, including Punjab. with this announcement the model code of conduct has become operative in Punjab.
It is believed that the application of model code of conduct loosens the grip of ruling regime over the administrative machinery and imposes various restrictions on the government in order to prevent it from affecting the election prospects. The model code of conduct applies to both ruling and opposition parties.
The ECI today announced that polling for Punjab state assembly will be held on February 04 and results will be declared after holding counting of votes on March 11.
ECI officials in a press conference convened today said notification for filing of candidatures would be issued on 11 January and nominations may be filed till 18 January.
Scrutiny of nominations will be held on 19 January and candidates would be allowed to withdraw their nominations till 21 January. Polling for 117 assembly seats of Punjab will be held on 4 February 2017.
A letter issued by R. K. SHIVASTAVA (Sr. Principal Secretary) about application of Mode Code of Conduct reads as follows: