Solapur’s police commissioner has set out strict rules for campaigning ahead of municipal elections scheduled for 15 January, aiming to ensure law and order and to keep the polls peaceful. Commissioner M. Raj Kumar warned candidates and parties against violating campaign regulations after the symbol allocation on Saturday, and detailed prohibitions on loudspeakers, unlicensed arms, unauthorised hoardings and large vehicle rallies.
India election campaign restrictions explained
The commissioner said that, following a Supreme Court directive, the use of loudspeakers on moving vehicles and in public areas will not be permitted before 6am or after 10pm. During permitted hours, loudspeakers fitted to vehicles must be used only when the vehicle is stationary at a pre-approved location; announcements cannot be made while vehicles are on the move.
All candidates and political parties wishing to conduct loudspeaker-based campaigning at designated spots must notify the returning officer and the local police station in advance. The aim is to prevent disturbances and to coordinate locations so they do not impede traffic or public safety.
The commissioner reiterated that no person may carry firearms without a valid licence. Exceptions apply only to security personnel authorised by banks, ATMs, government offices and private establishments who hold the necessary permits. Anyone found in possession of an unlicensed weapon during the election period will face action under the law.
Rules governing vehicle processions have been tightened. Any procession that comprises more than ten vehicles is prohibited until the election process is complete. Where multiple groups travel as part of campaign activity, organisers must ensure a minimum separation of 100 metres between groups of up to ten vehicles to avoid large, continuous convoys.
Advertising and display controls include a ban on affixing flags, cloth banners, hoardings or graffiti to private property without explicit permission from the property owner and the local authority. Candidates and supporters must seek local-authority approval before erecting posters, banners or archways, and they are responsible for ensuring that such material does not obstruct traffic or public thoroughfares.
Religious and prayer sites are off limits as platforms for electioneering. The commissioner made it clear that places of worship must not be used for campaign purposes under any circumstances, reinforcing the separation of religious practice and political activity.
These orders form part of the model code of conduct in force until polling concludes on 15 January. Police have been instructed to enforce the rules strictly and to act on complaints. Candidates, their agents and party workers have been warned that violations will attract legal action and could jeopardise campaign privileges.
Commissioner M. Raj Kumar appealed to political parties and supporters to cooperate with the authorities and to conduct campaigns responsibly. He urged organisers to plan rallies and publicity drives within the parameters set by local officials and to notify the election authorities of their plans so policing resources can be arranged to maintain public order.
Voters in Solapur are expected to see a regulated campaign period focused on permitted public meetings and authorised publicity. Anyone wishing to report breaches of the rules has been asked to contact the local police station or the election officer so prompt action can be taken.
Key Takeaways:
- Solapur Police Commissioner M. Raj Kumar issued clear India election campaign restrictions ahead of 15 January municipal polls.
- Loudspeaker use is prohibited before 6am and after 10pm on moving vehicles and in public areas; stationary vehicle announcements require prior notification to authorities.
- Vehicle processions are capped at ten vehicles with 100-metre gaps between groups; banners, hoardings and campaigning at religious sites require permission or are banned.
