ministers-barred-from-using-govt-vehicles-for-rallies

Political activity has picked up ahead of elections to four Municipal Corporations in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, Solan, Palampur and Mandi. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is set to begin campaigning on May 14–15 but will not be permitted to use government helicopters for election rallies and meetings due to poll rules.

 

With the Election Code of Conduct in force, the rules clearly state that if the Chief Minister or any minister uses government helicopters or official resources for campaigning, the entire expense will be counted as election expenditure of the political party concerned. The Election Commission has issued strict guidelines to prevent misuse of government machinery during the campaign period.

 

Because of these rules, ministers, including the Chief Minister, will have to avoid using government vehicles for campaign activities. If any government vehicle is used, its cost will be added to the party’s election expenses, and the Commission will prepare a detailed expenditure report based on monitoring records.

 

The Chief Minister is expected to hold public meetings and roadshows during the election tour. Responsibilities have been assigned to senior party leaders to campaign in support of candidates. 

 

According to the proposed programme, the Chief Minister will address multiple public gatherings in Dharamshala, Mandi, Solan and Palampur. Both the Congress and BJP have intensified their campaigns, organising meetings, door-to-door outreach programmes and corner meetings across constituencies.

 

The State Election Commission has instructed all political parties and candidates to strictly follow rules regarding the use of government resources during campaigning. Monitoring teams are keeping close watch on election expenses, including vehicle use, public meetings and campaign arrangements.

 

Authorities have emphasised that all campaign activities must remain within the limits set under election expenditure norms and the Model Code of Conduct.

 

Also read: Sukhu directs Health Dept to prepare Nutrition Policy by May 31