Election Code Restrictions Withdrawn In Guntur And Tenali

The Election Model Code of Conduct has been withdrawn in Guntur and Tenali following the completion of the electoral process in the two towns, District Collector and District Election Officer C.M. Saikanth Varma announced. The decision was taken in accordance with the directions issued by the Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission, bringing relief to residents and local authorities in the two urban areas.

Addressing officials through a teleconference on Monday, the Collector clarified that the withdrawal of election restrictions was limited to Guntur and Tenali. The Model Code of Conduct will continue to remain in force across the other parts of Guntur district until the respective election processes are completed. He instructed officials and the public in these areas to strictly follow the prescribed election guidelines and ensure that no violations take place.

Meanwhile, the district administration has started making preparations for the upcoming Gram Panchayat elections. The Collector said the administration was gearing up to conduct the rural local body polls and would initiate the necessary arrangements as soon as the official election notification was issued. Departments concerned have been asked to remain prepared for the next phase of the electoral process.

In a separate discussion, Saikanth Varma directed officials to ensure that the regularisation of house sites was carried out through a systematic and transparent verification process. He stressed that the eligibility of applicants must be thoroughly examined through field-level inspections rather than relying solely on submitted documents. Officials were instructed to verify whether applicants met the prescribed conditions before taking further decisions.

The Collector also emphasised the importance of involving local communities in the verification exercise. He directed the concerned authorities to organise Gram Sabhas and obtain resolutions before proceeding with regularisation proposals. Reports from the departments concerned should form the basis for establishing clear procedures and determining eligibility.

Stressing the need for accountability, he said the entire exercise must be conducted in a fair and transparent manner, ensuring that only eligible beneficiaries receive the intended benefits. Proper coordination among departments was also highlighted as essential for the smooth implementation of the process.