The Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission (SEC) has appointed 28 IAS officers as General Observers to oversee the local body election process. 

In a meeting on Thursday, State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha called upon the General Observers to ensure free and fair elections. 

He said that the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) had come into force and instructed the observers to see that the election rules were strictly adhered to.  He wanted the observers to duly focus on violations of the MCC. 

Mr. Punetha highlighted the importance of the Poll Management App developed by the SEC in sharing information on voter management, polling stations and election procedures. He told the observers to coordinate with district police authorities for arrangement of adequate security. 

The officials must create an environment where voters can exercise their franchise without fear, pressure or inducement, Mr. Punetha added.