PANJIM: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has refrained the Chief Minister and Ministers from hearing appeals filed by citizens under prevailing laws and acts until March 15 when the poll process ends. 

In directions issued to the State Government on January 14, the ECI said that since the model code of conduct has come into force, hearings on appeals of citizens by the Chief Minister or Minister or political appointees on a statutory body may have direct or indirect influence on voters and may disturb the level playing field. 

“Considering the fact and circumstances, the Commission has directed that all such hearings by the Chief Minister or Minister or political appointees, should be deferred till conclusion of the polls,” Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) IAS Kunal told media persons on Monday. 

Kunal said the ECI has further directed that in the absence of Chief Minister and Minister any appeals requiring pre-hearings under law should be held by the secretary level officer appointed by the Chief Secretary. “This we have already conveyed to the government and asked to take necessary steps,” he said. 

Social Activist Adv Aires Rodrigues had filed a complaint before the CEO informing of the CM and ministers continuing to hear appeals filed by citizens. Pointing out that the Model Code of Conduct having come into force, it is incumbent upon the government to comply with it in letter and spirit, Rodrigues stated that it is inappropriate to allow ministers to continue hearing appeals as they being likely candidates at the elections, would be and/or are in a position to influence voters through their orders.