PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Nov 10: The mandatory silence period for the Ghatshila Assembly by-election officially began last evening, bringing all forms of public campaigning to a halt across the constituency.
As per Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines, the 48-hour period before polling is reserved for voter reflection, during which political parties are prohibited from holding rallies, using loudspeakers, or engaging in any form of public canvassing.
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District election officials have issued firm warnings that any use of microphones, loudspeakers, roadshows, or public gatherings for political promotion will invite immediate action under the Representation of the People Act and the Model Code of Conduct.
Flying squads and surveillance teams have been deployed across sensitive and vulnerable pockets to ensure full compliance.
In addition to ground monitoring, the District Control Room has intensified digital surveillance to curb last-minute attempts at online campaigning, mass messaging, or unauthorized advertisements.
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Special observers appointed by the ECI are closely tracking movement of candidates, campaign staff, and vehicles to prevent inducements or attempts to influence voters.
Security measures have also been tightened, with additional police forces stationed at key junctions, border checkposts, and around polling stations.
