Manipur, April 17 -- Due to the prevailing situation in Manipur, canvassing for votes has changed drastically. In the 1972 elections, distribution of cash for votes was minimal but the noise was tremendous. Using PA system, in every locality votes were sought and even in the evening canvassing using PA system fixed on a vehicle either a four wheeler or an auto-rickshaw was the norm. Despite the restriction that use of the PA system was banned after 10.00 PM, violation was the norm and people took it for granted.

By the 1980s when this writer returned after his higher education outside, he found that the system had changed for the worse. People used to gather in large numbers at various places and feasting along with drinks was the norm. ...