Liquor shops will shut down 48 hours before polling when electioneering will also conclude. The shops will re-open after voting gets over. Election Commission issued directives to this effect to state excise department during a review meeting held on Tuesday. The meeting was attended by nodal officers of key departments, which are directly responsible to conduct elections.
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In addition, excise department officials were told to prevent distribution of liquor during elections. In fact, Election Commission expressed concern over rampant use of illicit liquor during elections. More than 3.76 lakh litres of liquor worth Rs 9.30 crore have been seized since implementation of model code of conduct. At the meeting, public health engineering department officials were told to make proper drinking arrangements at polling booths keeping in the view the summer heat.
A detailed review of state home department was held in terms of deployment of police force during different phases of elections in state. Feedback was taken on meetings held with police officials of border states. Food and civil supplies department was told to make adequate arrangements for supply of petrol and diesel. Election Commission said roads leading to polling stations should be in good condition while regular electricity supply should be maintained. Medical teams, stationery related with polling like availability of nomination forms should be ensured by concerning departments.
