Udupi: Udupi district minister in-charge Pramod Madhwaraj on Wednesday expressed dissatisfaction about the implementation of model code of conduct in the district, which he said was restricting people from openly expressing public and political views.

“We are also restricted to go to the public without permission and this is tying our hands. In a democracy seeking votes is the right of every candidate. However this trend is discouraging. Doing illegal things like paying money and influencing someone should be stopped, however not like this,” Pramod said.

When asked if this will this affect voting, he said, “People are curious about the election, however they are scared and have an unwanted fear to express it because of the code of conduct. In a democracy, election is like a festival; however the EC has rigidly restricted it this time.”

Speaking about the Karkala ticket issue, Pramod said that it will be sorted by the party high command. Stating that some rebellion is common when candidates are announced, he added that the party is capable to solve such issues.

When asked why the party issued the ticket to Gopal Bhandary even when party worers had expressed support to Uday Kumar Shetty, , he said that it was not always necessary that the views of the workers and public should match every time.

Regarding Rahul Gandhi visiting Udupi, Pramod said it was yet to be confirmed, adding that his party workers are ready to welcome the Congress president anytime.

Pramod Madhwaraj confirmed that he will be filing his nomination on April 23. Udupi and Brahmavar block congress committee will organize a ‘Mass Janashirvadha Samavesha’ at 2.30pm at the Royal Garden Kalsanka on April 22.

Local leaders like Kaup MLA Vinay Kumar Sorake, Byndoor MLA Gopal Poojary, MLC Prathapchandra Shetty, INTUC state president Rakesh Malli, former Karkala MLA Gopal Bhandary, Udupi district Congress vice-president Muniyalu Uday Shetty and others will take part in the convention. More than 20,000 members are expected to participate.