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Judgment
Ashok Menon, J
The writ petitions are filed mainly with the same intention and purpose, i.e. to issue a writ of mandamus or a writ, order or directions against the respondents/State to ensure that all kinds of precautions are taken in connection with the pandemic situation during the declaration of results following the counting of votes.
In WP(C) No.9950/2021, the petitioners have also requested for a declaration of lock-down from the midnight of 1.5.2021 to the midnight of 2.5.2021 while the counting of the votes consequent to the election is to take place. The learned State Attorney has submitted the orders of the Government of Kerala which was issued on 26.4.2021 after an all-party meeting and on consultation with other Government authorities. We have gone through the said order in detail. There is also an order of the Election Commission of India dated 27.4.2021 which is specific with regard to the aspects such as victory procession, counting of votes etc. We have gone through both these orders in great detail and after having bestowed our anxious consideration to the orders of the Government of Kerala as also the Election Commission of India, we find that there is nothing to be added on as further directions. All necessary precautions have been taken by the Government and the Election Commission to curtail and contain the pandemic situation in view of the counting of votes, consequent to the election.
The learned Counsel appearing for the petitioners have also submitted that necessary actions should be taken against the defaulters. Regarding that we find that no specific order is required from this Court. The Government is at liberty to invoke the provisions of the Kerala Epidemic Diseases Ordinance, 2020 and take necessary action against the violators, and we are sure that the Government would be vigilant in implementing the available provisions.
With these observations, the writ petitions are disposed of.