Panaji (Goa): The model code of conduct for the June 11 Panchayat elections in the state will come into force from Thursday. Also filing of nominations for the elections will begin from tomorrow.

The code of conduct, which would be in force till the end of counting process on June 13, will be applicable in 186 village Panchayats going for polls.

In a notification issued by the SEC, it has said that during the code of conduct, the candidates or political parties should not make appeal to voters based on caste or communal feelings for securing votes. “Mosques, Churches, Temples or other places of worship should not be used as a forum for election propaganda,” SEC said.

As per the code of conduct, the government or party in power cannot make any policy decisions or release financial grants that can influence the voters. It also restricts entry of Ministers into the polling booths during the polling day.

The expenditure limit of the candidates has been capped at 40,000.

The filing of nominations begins from Thursday, wherein the applications would be accepted by the concern returning officers in the respective talukas. The last date for filing nominations is May 25.

Total 1522 wards will be going for polls on June 11, of which 540 wards are reserved for OBC, SC and ST and 490 wards for women which include 323 seats for women in general category. The notification in regards to reservation was issued by the Directorate of Panchayat.

Team TNV