LS polls: Women candidates to get an additional PSO

The Election Commission on Wednesday decided that all women candidates contesting the Lok Sabha elections will get an additional 'lady personal security officer' along with a male securityman.

The Commission said it took the decision taking into account the "social perspectives" and the safety and security of women candidates. It said generally the PSO provided to the contesting candidate is male, whether the candidate is a male or a female.

"The Commission has considered the matter and taking into account the social perspectives and for the safety and security of women candidates, directed that an additional lady PSO may also be provided to women candidates alongwith the male PSO," the poll body's directive said.

All candidates contesting an election are provided with a PSO for their security as per laid down norms.