HYDERABAD: The Andhra Pradesh Election Commission on Thursday put a halt to issue of ration cards in any form saying that such a move was against the model code of conduct.

"No further ration cards shall be issued in any form," the State Election Commissioner, A. V. S. Reddy, told reporters here in the wake of objections raised by the Opposition about distribution of ration cards in the civic bodies, which are going to polls.

Mr. Reddy said it was not the intention of the SEC that developmental and welfare measures should come to a standstill when the elections to the local bodies were announced. Model code prohibited announcement of new projects, financial grants, laying of foundation stones, which might influence voters, he added.

Regarding the areas affected by recent floods, he said Collectors could use their discretionary powers to judge the situation and act accordingly. In case of doubt, they could call for a meeting of political parties, discuss the issue and take a decision accordingly. Mr. Reddy said relief works pertaining to natural and man-made calamities shall be taken up in the areas which had been declared `affected' as per the guidelines laid down for managing the Calamity Relief Fund by the Government.

Voting right

Replying to a question, Mr. Reddy said there was no quota for Muslims in these elections as the Government order ensured quota only in education and employment. On the voting rights for the MLAs and MPs, he said legal opinion was sought. However, the Rajya Sabha members who were not registered voters in any municipality would not be allowed to cast their votes in the elections.

On teacher transfers, he said counselling and other process could be completed but no orders should be issued till the elections concluded. He said the commission had no objection to the Chief Minister or other dignitaries attending the Teachers Day celebrations on September 5 but they should not use it for political campaign.

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