The Ernakulam district administration has banned the possession and carrying of arms in view of the ongoing Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the Assembly elections.
It is part of the measures to ensure a peaceful and fair election. G. Priyanka, District Collector and District Magistrate, issued the order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to maintain law and order.
Accordingly, the possession of weapons, including firearms, spears, swords and batons in public places is strictly prohibited until the election results are declared. Strict legal action will be taken against those violating the norms, the release said.
On-duty police officers, paramilitary forces, persons using firearms for bank security and protection, and sportsmen participating in shooting events must obtain special permits from the authorities. There will be an exception for sections that have permission to display weapons as part of their religious or legal rights. The District Screening Committee will have the power to call upon the holders of arms licenses to deposit their arms with the authorities if such action is necessary to ensure law and order.
The meeting took place
Ms. Priyanka called an all-party meeting on Tuesday, March 24, in the presence of election observers, to explain the preparations and procedures for the vote. The district has a total of 3148 polling stations. To ensure the safety of these stations, webcasting was implemented. There are 14 polling stations run by women in the district. There are 70 model polling stations. According to the announcement, there are two cabins managed by differently abled people.
The district administration has urged political parties to use environment-friendly campaign materials and avoid plastic, flexible PVC sheets and banners. Action will be taken against those who violate the green protocol.
Published – 24 March 2026 22:22 IST
