The State Election Commission has officially released the calendar for the upcoming general elections to two significant town panchayats in coastal Karnataka. Voters in Bajpe and Kinnigoli in Dakshina Kannada district will head to the polls later this month to elect their local representatives, marking a crucial democratic exercise for the region's urban local bodies.
Key Dates and Election Timeline
According to the official notification issued by Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V. on December 2, the electoral process has been set in motion. The commission has outlined a clear timeline for the polls. The last date for candidates to file their nomination papers is December 9. This will be followed by the scrutiny of all submitted nominations on the very next day, December 10.
Aspiring candidates will have time until December 12 to withdraw their candidatures if they choose to do so. The focal point of the process, the voting day, is scheduled for December 21. On that day, polling stations will be open for voters from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The commission has also made provisions for a re-poll, if necessary, which will be conducted on December 23.
Counting and Code of Conduct
The fate of the candidates will be decided on December 24, when the votes are counted. The counting of votes will take place at designated central locations within the respective taluks. This ensures a transparent and centralized process for declaring the results.
Concurrently, the Model Code of Conduct has come into force. As per the announcement, the code is effective from December 2 to December 24. However, it is important to note that this code applies specifically to the areas falling under the Bajpe and Kinnigoli town panchayats where the general elections are being held, as well as in any wards of urban local bodies where bye-elections are occurring. This restriction aims to minimize disruption while ensuring free and fair polls in the contesting regions.
Significance for Local Governance
These elections are vital for the local governance and development of Bajpe and Kinnigoli. Town panchayats play a critical role in managing civic amenities, local infrastructure, and community welfare projects. The announcement of the schedule sets the stage for political activity, allowing parties and independent candidates to prepare their campaigns and reach out to the electorate.
With the code of conduct in place, all administrative machinery and contesting candidates are expected to adhere to the guidelines set by the State Election Commission, ensuring a level playing field. The district administration, led by the Deputy Commissioner, will oversee the smooth execution of the entire electoral process, from nomination to the declaration of results.
