Chennai: With the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in force for the 2026 assembly elections, Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has decided not to cover statues of deceased political leaders. Election Commission has instructed the civic body not to cover any of the statues. “Their images are already there on social media and other places. Secondly, it is also a mark of respect to the leaders,” said GCC’s Teynampet executive engineer Muthiah. On Tuesday, GCC officials warned marriage hall owners, community hall operators, pawn brokers and banks against any violations. At a meeting chaired by additional district election officer and joint commissioner (education) K Karpagam at Ripon Buildings, pawn brokers were cautioned against facilitating voter inducements, including returning pledged jewellery through tokens or bulk releases linked to candidates or their agents. Any such violations would invite action under the Representation of the People Act, including licence cancellation. They were also asked to report suspicious bulk redemptions to the 24×7 election control room.Marriage and community hall owners were directed not to permit political gatherings under the guise of social events without prior intimation. Distribution of cash, gifts, clothes or food, use of political banners, cut-outs or hoardings during functions is prohibited. Lodge owners were instructed to verify guest identities and ensure those arriving for poll work vacate after campaigning ends.Officials said the election control room and media certification and monitoring centre at Ripon Buildings are functioning round the clock, with staff on rotation. Flying squads, surveillance and video teams have been deployed across all 16 assembly constituencies. Complaints can be lodged through the toll-free helpline 1800 425 7012 or via the cVIGIL app.In a separate meeting with bank officials, authorities said transactions above 10 lakh from savings accounts will be monitored and must be reported to the district election office and the income tax department. Any unusual transfers exceeding 1 lakh, including from accounts of candidates, their dependants or political parties, must be flagged. Banks have been asked to submit daily transaction reports to the election expenditure monitoring committee.
