PANJIM: The month-long model code of conduct for the elections to the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) came into force from Monday midnight and will be applicable within the CCP jurisdiction. The election for 30 wards is scheduled on March 6 and counting will take place on March 8. The code of conduct will be in force till March 8 midnight.
A total of 31,504 people are eligible to exercise their franchise in the elections. Last week Goa State Election Commission (SEC) had issued the notification announcing the election schedule. The process of filing of nominations will commence from Tuesday. The last date for filing the nomination papers in February 16.
St Cruz MLA Atanasio (Babush) Monserrate has announced the names of 29 candidates from 30 wards. While retaining a few councillors, Monserrate has introduced several new faces, including some BJP workers. Congress-backed former Mayor Tony Rodrigues, is likely to field an independent panel.
On the other hand, BJP is yet to announce its panel. The party, hit by rebellion, is expected to announce the names of 18 candidates on Tuesday. The party leadership is facing a tough time with several party loyalists upset with local MLA Siddharath Kuncolienkar’s approach towards the elections.
Voting will be through electronic voting machine (EVM), the system which was introduced during the last election on a trial basis.
The expenditure limit per candidate has been increased to Rs 2.5 lakh, which is almost three times the amount compared to the 2011 election, wherein the limit was fixed at 75,000 per candidate.
