Authorities in Bengaluru have announced strict measures to maintain law and order during phase 2 polling for the Lok Sabha elections on April 26. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) will be in effect from 6 pm on April 24 until midnight on April 26.
During this period, public meetings, rallies, gatherings of more than five people, burning of effigies, possession of lethal weapons, provocative speeches, and publicly raising political slogans will be strictly prohibited in Bengaluru.
Campaigning or the use of banners or placards within a 100-meter radius of polling booths is also prohibited. Cell phones, cordless phones, and other electronic devices are restricted within this radius, except for officials and staff approved by the District Election Officer (DEO).
Bengaluru City Police Commissioner B Dayananda emphasized that law and order should not be compromised during permitted processions, such as weddings, while upholding the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Exceptions are made for funeral processions.
To facilitate the voting process, schools, colleges, and other educational institutions in the voting districts will remain closed.
Additionally, alcohol sales will be banned in Bengaluru from 12 am on April 26 to 12 am on April 27 and from 12 am on June 3 to 12 am on June 4, coinciding with the polling and counting dates respectively. However, hotels and restaurants will be permitted to serve food and non-alcoholic drinks during these periods.
The Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka are scheduled to be held in two phases on April 26 (Phase 2) and May 7 (Phase 3).
