CM Fadnavis seeks poll code relaxation

Mumbai: A day after 17 seats in the state went to the polls in the fourth phase of the general election chief minister Devendra Fadnavis sought relaxation in the model code of conduct (MCC) from the Election Commission of India (ECI) to provide relief to drought-affected regions. In this connection, Mr Fadnavis has written a letter to the ECI commissioner.

The letter read, “Since the polling has been completed and in view of extr-eme summer faced by the state of Maharashtra, on going programmes under the state/GOI funding and works as per the statutory requirement, the Election Commission of India is requested to relax the provisions of the model code of conduct in respect of following works/ programmes/activities.”

The letter also stated that a number of infrastructure works such as drilling bore wells, repairs to drinking water scheme, irrigation canals maintenance work needs to be taken up during  summer. The state has already declared 151 talukas as the drought-affected. The central government has provided assistance of `4,741 crores in this regard.      

Chief minister also expressed his desire in the letter stating, “Separately, I am proposing the cabinet meeting on this issue at earliest.”

He has also mentioned in the letter that he wants the relaxation in works related to hospital infrastructure, road, municipal, panchayats and among others. In this connection, the calling for tenders, finalisation of bids, entering into contracts and grounding the work planned in the annual works plan of the departments have to be completed in a time bound manner.

Mr Fadnavis also wanted permission to take review and implementation of ongoing programs in the field. However, the review may be limited to those officers who are not on the election duty. He also sought permission for tours of ministers and accompaniment of officers on such tours.    

Chief minister also cited the previous instances where the relaxation had been granted. He said, “I wish to inform that the ECI has considered similar requests in the past vide their guidelines 437/INST/2009/CC&BE dated April 26, 2009. It is therefore requested the ECI may permit the works/ programs/ activities.”

He also said that a favourable decision by Election Commission of India would enable the state government to continue drought relief works more effectively.

All four phases of polls to the state’s 48 Lok Sabha seats ended April 29.