EC bans rallies in 5 poll-bound states till 22nd; COVID-19 cases spiral in India

The Poll Panel has extended the ban on rallies and roadshows in five poll-bound states. Amid concern over rising COVID-19 cases, the EC on Saturday met top Union Govt & state officials. After a review meet, the ban on rallies further extended till January 22. The Poll Panel has directed all parties to ensure that COVID-19 protocols are not violated. However, the EC has permitted indoor poll meetings with 300 people or 50% of the venue capacity. The first phase of Assembly polls will begin on February 10 and continue till March 7. All 5 results (UP, Punjab, Goa, Manipur and Uttarakhand) are due on March 10.