New Delhi: The Election Commission has reviewed projected trends of the Covid pandemic in the five poll-bound states.
The poll body has decided to allow physical public meetings of the political parties or contesting candidates in designated open spaces with maximum of 1,000 persons or 50% of the capacity of the ground with effect from today, All India Radio reported.
Meanwhile, the campaigning has picked up pace for first two phases in Uttar Pradesh and single-phase polls in Goa and Uttarakhand.
The prominent leaders and star campaigners of various political parties engaged in public rallies after finalization of the candidates for the first two phases in politically crucial Uttar Pradesh.
Besides, the door-to-door canvassing and virtual appeals to the voters also continue in the poll-bound states.
In view of the daily increase in Covid-19 cases in the five poll-bound states, the Election Commission had earlier extended a ban on political rallies and roadshows till February 11.
The poll body also announced some relaxation and permitted the physical rallies with a maximum capacity of 1000 people and indoor meetings to have a maximum capacity of 500 people.
Twenty people were allowed for the door-to-door campaign.
The decision came after the Election Commission officials discussed the Covid situation with the health secretaries of the states.