Punjab Home Department issues Code of Conduct for the 3rd phase of Local Bodies’ Elections 2015

Lahore: Punjab Home Department has issued Code of Conduct for the 3^rd phase of Local Bodies’ Elections 2015 under which carrying and display of all kinds of weapons including the licensed one and aerial firing and firing have been prohibited under Section 144.

There will be a ban on assembly of more than five (5) people (other than voter lines) within 300 meters from outer boundary of the polling station both during polling as well as counting on the polling day. Organizing and taking out rallies and processions to celebrate electoral victory has also been banned.

Surety bonds are obtained from all contestants to ensure that no untoward incident takes place during or after polling day. DCOs of all districts included in Phase-III will provide list of sensitive polling stations to the Home Department by 30^th November.

Services of army and rangers will be acquired for maintaining law and order at sensitive polling stations. Except casting their vote, local elected representatives will not be allowed to visit polling stations but they will ensure their positive role towards peaceful conduct of the elections.

All contestants will deposit their licensed weapons with the concerned police station one week prior to polling. The weapons will be returned three days after the polling day. Law enforcement agencies will ensure that no DRO/RO is victimized by the contestants/supporters. DROs will be given adequate security/escort at their offices/residences and during movement.

Moreover, flow of information is streamlined and in time dissemination of information ensured to prevent any untoward incident. The weapons used in various untoward incidents during Phase-I & II are being confiscated and license cancelled.