Chennai, March 16 (NationPress) The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Tamil Nadu, Archana Patnaik, announced on Monday that candidates aiming to participate in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections on April 23 will only have five effective working days to file their nomination papers, even though the Election Commission has outlined an eight-day period for this purpose.

During a media briefing regarding the election preparations in the state, Patnaik explained that the nomination submission window is set from March 30 to April 6. However, three of these days coincide with public holidays, resulting in only five operational days available for candidates to submit their documents. "While the Election Commission has designated an eight-day timeframe for nominations, the reality is that candidates can only file their papers on the five days that are not holidays," she stated.

The Election Commission of India confirmed that the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections will take place in a single phase on April 23, with vote counting slated for May 4.

A formal notification for the elections is anticipated, which will kick off the nomination process and other essential electoral procedures.

Patnaik emphasized that election officials across Tamil Nadu are engaged in extensive preparations to ensure a smooth and transparent electoral process.

Officials have been directed to adhere strictly to the guidelines provided by the Election Commission, including those concerning nomination protocols, monitoring campaign expenses, and upholding the Model Code of Conduct.

The Chief Electoral Officer also pointed out measures being taken to mitigate the impact of unaccounted funds during the election. She disclosed that on a recent inspection day, enforcement agencies seized Rs 1.26 crore in cash, which was being transported without proper documentation.

According to Patnaik, the confiscated funds were part of heightened election surveillance efforts, and officials have ramped up monitoring at various check posts, transportation centers, and sensitive sites to prevent the distribution of illegal cash, liquor, or other incentives to voters.

As part of these initiatives, surveillance teams, flying squads, and static monitoring units have been deployed throughout Tamil Nadu.

Patnaik urged candidates and political entities to fully comply with electoral regulations and ensure transparency in their campaign financing. She also called on the public to support election officials in fostering a fair and peaceful electoral environment.

The forthcoming Assembly elections are anticipated to showcase a vigorous political competition as key parties amplify their strategies for the critical polls next month.