Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis writes to EC asking for relaxation in Model Code of Conduct (MCC) to carry out drought relief measures in the state

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday wrote to the Election Commission (EC) seeking relaxation in Model Code of Conduct (MCC) to carry out drought relief measures in the state as polling for all constituencies has been successfully concluded in Maharashtra.

The letter written by Fadnavis states that the apex poll body should ease some norms to allow drought relief work to be carried out in the state as elections listing the various tasks yet to be undertaken in the state to counter the drought prevalent in 151 talukas of Maharashtra.

"Extreme summer: There are a number of infrastructures works such as drilling of bore wells, repairs to drinking water schemes, irrigation canal maintenance works, etc. which need to be taken up during the extreme summer. The Government of Maharashtra declared 151 talukas as drought affected and the Government of India has extended the assistance of Rs 4,714 crore in this regard. Separately I am proposing the Cabinet Meeting on this issue at the earliest," Fadnavis wrote.

Fadnavis also said that the EC should allow relaxation for public works to be completed within the stipulated time in Maharashtra.

"Works: Calling for tenders, evaluation of tenders, finalization of bids, entering into contracts and grounding the works planned in the annual works plan of the departments which have to be completed in a time bound manner. For example, Hospital infrastructure works, road works, municipal and panchayat works, etc" Fadnavis added.

He has also urged EC to allow review and implementation of the work carried out in the region by government officials while that the relaxation provided should be only for those officers who are not on election duty. The tour of ministers in the state has been asked to be allowed for.

Citing EC's previous relaxation in 2009 for drought relief, Fadnavis hopes that the relaxation to carry out drought relief work should, therefore, be granted soon.

"In this connection, I wish to inform that the ECI has considered similar requests in the past vide their guidelines 437/INST/2009/CC & BE dated 26-4-2009. It is, therefore, requested that the ECI may permit the aforementioned works/programs/activities as mentioned here. A favourable decision by ECI will enable the State Government to continue drought relief works more effectively," Fadnavis wrote.

Here is the letter that was written by Fadnavis:

Polling for all parliamentary constituencies in Maharashtra was held in the first four phases of the Lok Sabha elections till April 29. The results will be declared on May 23.

(With ANI inputs)