The State Election Commission (SEC) on Monday announced that all COVID-19 restrictions on campaigns for urban local body elections in Odisha have been withdrawn. SEC AP Padhi said that the decision was taken as the COVID situation improves in the state. The elections are to be held on March 24.
Padhi, however, said the restrictions could be reimposed if cases spike again.
The state recorded 120 new COVID-19 cases on Monday, taking the tally to 12,86,009, while the toll remained unchanged at 9,101, as no new deaths were recorded, the health department said.
Elections to 106 ULBs – 47 municipalities and 59 notified area councils – and three municipal corporations will be held on March 24. The counting of votes will be done after two days.
For the first time, provisions have been made for direct election of mayors of municipal corporations and chairpersons of municipalities and notified area councils.
Two EVMs will be installed at the polling stations – one for the election of the mayor or chairperson of the municipal bodies and the other for the local councillor. More than 41 lakh voters will exercise their franchise in 4,475 booths.
Don’t miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint.
download
Our App Now!!