EC ‘satisfied’ with Raman set-up

On Mahasamund, where both candidates — Ajit Jogi and V.C. Shukla — have raised fears of violence, the CEC said: ‘‘It’s true serious apprehensions have been raised about Mahasamund constituency. We are taking additional administrative measures to ensure that people cast their votes freely and there is no threat or fear.’’ He said an additional observer will be sent to the area. The CEC also dismissed the controversy over Haryana DGP Mohinder Singh Malik whose wife is contesting the elections, saying he had gone on leave for the poll period, settling the matter. ‘‘The EC’s requirement has been met. Now, he has proceeded on leave. There is no particular complaint against him,’’ he said.

The CEC, however, reserved comment on Attorney General Soli J. Sorabjee’s suggestion, rejecting the EC proposal for ban on publication of opinion and exit polls during the period of elections. ‘‘Unless I see the papers or the AG ’s communication, it’s difficult to say anything,’’ Krishnamurthy said.