Coronavirus effect: State Election Commission postpones panchayat elections in AP

Panchayat Elections in AP: As the coronavirus has hit the Indian subcontinent with as many as 86 suspected cases along with a fast-spreadingcouple of deaths, the state governments have been alerted and taking all measures to prevent the spread. As part of it, the government of Andhra Pradesh led by chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has decided to postpone the panchayat elections in the state.

State Election Commissioner Ramesh Kumar has announced that the process will be halted for 6 weeks due to the corona outbreak. "After 6 weeks, we would review the situation and release the new schedule, " State Election Commissioner said in a press meet.

However, he clarified that there will be no elections for the wards which have elected the candidates unanimously. Ramesh Kumar has directed the collectors to take action against those who levelled allegations against the village volunteers.

He also asserted that the state's model code would remain in force even after the elections were postponed. He said the ban applies to schemes that entice voters and does not apply to government day-to-day activities. The Election Commission will also provide clarity at the request of the state government wherever necessary.

Earlier on Saturday, the neighbouring state Telangana has declared the closure of schools, colleges, malls, theatres across the state as part of the preventive measures.