Eluru: Election Commission decision shocks party functionaries, contestants

Eluru: Leaders and functionaries of various political parties are disappointed with the sudden postponement of local body elections.

Lakhs of functionaries, local leaders, supporters were in a jubilation mood as the election fever gripped the West Godavari district. The political parties have fully prepared with the pamphlets, banners, flexes and election material for the campaign and the mood was in full swing.

But, the announcement of Election Commission on Sunday sent shock waves to the aspirants, who were hopeful of getting elected to the local bodies. The political parties have been eagerly waiting for the polls for a long time. After many months court cases, finally the government prepared for the polls and released notification.

But, the decision of State Election Commission was a big shock to lakhs of activists, supporters and leaders in West Godavari. Moreover, the Election Code of conduct will be applicable till the elections are completed. The contesting candidates have to wait at least six weeks for the polls.

It is assumed that the election expenditure will also increase to the contesting candidates because, they have to be in touch with their followers and maintain relations with the pubic particularly the voters. Luckily, many MPTCs were elected unopposed as the election movement gained momentum in some mandals particularly in the rural areas.

The election officials have to be on high alert and there is possibility of breaking down law and order as the tempers remain high in the rural areas where tough fight expected from the contesting candidates.