Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 13 (UNI) The Kerala State Election Commission has tightened election protocols ahead of the upcoming local body polls, issuing detailed directions on symbol allocation and campaign monitoring.
As per the latest notification, political parties must submit the signatures of their authorised officials—attested by state-level office bearers—while recommending election symbols for candidates.
These attested documents must be handed over to the District Election Officer, with a copy sent to the State Election Commission.
Authorised party representatives are required to submit their recommendation letters bearing original signatures to the Returning Officer before 3 pm on November 24, the day of symbol allotment.
In a parallel move to ensure clean and lawful campaigning, the Commission has ordered the formation of Anti-Defacement Squads across the state. The squads will monitor all campaign-related activities to check for violations of election laws and guidelines.
Each district-level squad will function under the supervision of an Assistant Collector, Sub Collector, or Deputy Collector (other than the Returning Officer), while taluk-level teams will be headed by a Tahsildar or another gazetted officer.
The squads will oversee the legality of campaign materials — including posters, banners, wall writings, mike announcements, public meetings, and social media promotions — ensuring strict compliance with the Commission’s directions.
They will also enforce the Green Protocol, banning the use of plastic, flex boards, and other non-biodegradable materials. Unauthorised posters, arches, and banners will be removed immediately, with expenses recovered from violators.
If campaign materials obstruct pedestrian or vehicular movement or are installed without permission, they will be taken down by local authorities on the squad’s instructions.
Public complaints regarding illegal campaign displays or unapproved propaganda will be promptly investigated, with offenders facing strict action under election laws.
