UP Polls: Amid Omicron Scare, EC Holds Virtual Meetings

Discussion to be taken on imposing a ban on political rallies

New Delhi: Amid the increase of Omicron, the Election Commission (EC) holds a series of virtual meets today. It is to decide whether the ban imposed by it on physical rallies and roadshows to prevent the spread of coronavirus should continue.

The dates announced for elections in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa, Punjab and Manipur on January 8, the Election Commission had announced a ban on physical rallies, road and bike shows, and similar campaigning events till January 15.

On January 15, the commission extended the ban until January 22.

It had, however, granted a relaxation for political parties to hold indoor meetings of the maximum of 300 people or 50 per cent of the capacity of the hall.

In a report of news agency Press Trust of India, official sources said, the poll panel is holding the virtual meets to seek inputs from the Union Health Ministry, experts, the five poll-bound states and respective state chief electoral officers to arrive at a decision.

Earlier, the Election Commission said that all the political parties should lead the election on time with proper COVID protocols.

According to a report by the media, Chief Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra said, all parties, including the ruling BJP, prime challenger Samajwadi Party, the Congress and Bahujan Samaj Party, among others, have said the elections must be held on time.

Adding more details on the parties raised violation of Covid norms in rallies and asking for curbs to be put in place, Mr. Chandra said, The parties had come up with suggestions on how vulnerable groups in the population can be protected from the threat of infection.

Listing steps being taken to prevent a surge in infections, the Chief Election Commissioner said voting time will be extended by an hour and 11,000 booths added to ensure distancing. Detailed guidelines will be issued soon, he said.