Polls together in 5 states

Sources said that considering complaints of state governments, the EC decided not to announce exact poll dates in advance to reduce the period during which the Model Code of Conduct comes into effect. 8220;Besides, the pattern of indelible ink on fingers will be changed from the dot to a vertical line between nail tip and skin of finger to avoid repeat voting. Unlike the black dot, the line cannot be erased that easily,8221; he added.

Roll back induction of Antulay, Deora: Sena

NEW DELHI: The Shiv Sena knocked the Nirvachan Sadan today for help to roll back the appointments of Union ministers A R Antulay and Murli Deora. Their induction violated the Model Code of Conduct as by-elections to two Assembly constituencies in Maharashtra were scheduled later this month, claimed the Sena. A group led by the deputy leader of Sena8217;s parliamentary party Chandrakant Khaire said that the Congress gave ministerial berths to Antualy and Deora prior to polls to appease the large minority electorate of the Shrivardhan Assembly segment, part of Raigad, where by-polls would be held.

On Antulay8217;s appointment, Khaire said, 8220;It was highly objectionable as he was given charge of the Minority Affairs Ministry,8221; he said further. Deora8217;s appointment as Petroleum Minister was appeasement of voters as Naigaon Assembly by-poll would be held soon, he said. 8212;ENS