Officials told to gear up for urban local body polls in A.P.

Officials should make preparations to ensure that the municipal elections are conducted transparently and peacefully, said Municipal Administration and Urban Development Principal Secretary S. Suresh Kumar.

Virtually addressing a regional preparedness meeting in Guntur on Tuesday, Mr. Suresh Kumar said the election notification was likely soon and urged officials to complete preparatory work. He stressed adherence to State Election Commission guidelines, cautioning that even minor lapses could attract serious consequences.

Commissioner and Director of Municipal Administration P. Sampath Kumar directed officials to prepare electoral rolls, inspect polling stations, complete reservations and strictly enforce the Model Code of Conduct and Green Code. He said elections to mayors and municipal chairpersons would be held directly and officials should remain alert.

Guntur Municipal Corporation Commissioner K. Mayur Ashok said elections could have to be completed within a short period after notification. He called for knowledge of the Returning Officer’s handbook and ballot-box procedures. He also advised officials to counter rumours in the media and social platforms promptly.

Regional Director Suryadevara Harikrishna said 24 of the 33 municipalities in Guntur region were prepared for elections, while the remaining municipalities would be covered subject to court orders. Joint Director Ravindra Babu stressed awareness of procedures before, during and after polling. ROs, AROs and municipal officials attended the meeting.