Election authorities in Chennai have designated 140 venues for public meetings and 214 spots for street corner gatherings, according to a statement from local police. These locations were identified in collaboration with the Greater Chennai City Police, ensuring a well-organized framework for political activities ahead of the upcoming elections.
To secure a venue, parties or candidates must notify local police well in advance of their intended meeting times and locations. This early communication is essential for traffic management and maintaining public order. A senior police officer noted that within the Chennai district, 112 locations have been specifically marked for larger public meetings, while 179 are allocated for smaller, street-level engagements.
Candidates can submit their requests through a mobile application called Suvidha 2.0, launched by the Election Commission of India (EC). After a party or candidate applies, the returning officer will relay this information to the local Deputy Commissioner of Police, who will then involve the respective police inspector to inspect the proposed site. Following this, a report will be filed, and a no-objection certificate will be issued swiftly, facilitating the permission process.
The Suvidha app enables candidates to track both their nomination status and the permissions they have requested. However, the EC has emphasized the importance of ensuring there are no restrictive orders in place for the intended venue. If such prohibitory orders exist, they must be adhered to, and any requests for exemptions should be made well in advance.
Regarding the use of loudspeakers, candidates must apply for necessary permissions early. Event organizers are encouraged to collaborate with on-duty police to manage any disruptions, as intervening against individuals causing disorder should be left to police officers.
Political parties and candidates are also responsible for ensuring that their supporters do not hinder meetings organized by rival factions. The guidelines stipulate that one party’s posters should not be removed by another party’s workers, fostering a more civil political environment.
“Permission and no-objection certifications will only be granted to applicants meeting all the conditions set forth by the Election Commission,” the officer added. Furthermore, permissions will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
As the election season picks up, adherence to these guidelines will be crucial in maintaining order and facilitating transparent political discourse throughout the city, contributing to a fair electoral process.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/elections/tamil-nadu-assembly/election-authorities-identify-140-places-to-hold-public-meetings/article70769071.ece
Category : Tamil Nadu
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Publish Date: 2026-03-24 23:37:00
