In Punjab, Chief Electoral Officer has banned the distribution of food grains on subsidised rates under a popular scheme of the state government till 30th of this month. A State Election Office spokesman said in Chandigarh that this has been done so that voters are not influenced by the scheme. However, there is no ban on the sale of food grains distributed under Public Distribution System (PDS). The Election Commission said, any minister or politician can participate in the Republic Day function but he or she cannot make any political speeches or seek votes.Meanwhile, Chief Electoral Officer has suspended two officials including a Headmaster of Government High School for indulging in political activities and three officials have been transferred for violation of Model Code of Conduct.A report has been sought in case of three officers from their concerned department on getting complaint against them.