Poll code may prove dampener

The model code of conduct, imposed in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, may come in the way of the Himachal Day celebrations on April 15, with the Election Commission still working out the technicalities. The celebrations mark 67 years of the state’s existence.

The model code of conduct, imposed in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, may come in the way of the Himachal Day celebrations on April 15, with the Election Commission still working out the technicalities. The celebrations mark 67 years of the state’s existence.

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“We are still working on the modalities for the Himachal Day celebrations. Of course, we will allow an official function to be held, but have to see that the model code of conduct is not violated,” an Election Commission official told HT.

While the state government’s general administration department is yet to finalise the venue for the state-level celebrations, the Election Commission is yet to decide whether to allow ministers to preside over the functions planned at the district headquarters, or permit only one state-level function. Usually, apart from the state-level function presided over by the chief minister, cabinet ministers are deputed to preside over functions in various district headquarters.

In the past, the government usually announced new people-centric schemes during the Himachal Day celebrations. However, before allowing the celebrations, the Election Commission wants to ensure that no hoarding publicising government policies and programmes come up at the function venues in the district headquarters, and the cultural programmes hosted on the day do not violate the model code of conduct.

The Election Commission has asked the state general administration to finalise the details of the festivities within next few days.