Visakhapatnam: With the poll bugle sounded by the election commission, the political parties of Andhra Pradesh have started holding public meetings and roadshows to woo the voters. As local units of some political parties are conducting public meetings without seeking a permission, the Visakhapatnam police commissioner A. Ravi Shankar said that all parties must seek permission from the police before conducting a party programme in the city.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, the top cop said it is mandatory for the political parties to obtain police permission and they can do so via the Suvidha app. He said if the app for some technical reason does not work, the political leaders can approach the Returning Officer for the permission.

Visakha police commissioner also clarified that the police issues only the NOC (No Objection Certificate) while the Returning Officer has been authorized to give permission to holding public meetings, door-to-door canvassing and public rallies. He warned the political parties of appropriate action if they fail to obtain necessary permission from the concerned authority.he added that the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is in place therefore political parties should not violate the guidelines. The senior police official also warned of stringent action against those who resort to spreading fake news and misinformation during election season.

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