Poll code violation: BJP, Congress file plaints with EC against each other

Bengaluru, Mar 31: The Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress have lodged complaints against each other with the Election Commission (EC) for alleged violations of the model code of conduct.

The Congress complained that BJP president Amit Shah violated the code of conduct in Mysuru by allegedly handing over a cheque for Rs 5 lakh to the family of Raju, an RSS worker who was killed in 2016.

The complaint stated that Mr. Shah was accompanied by BJP State president B.S. Yeddyurappa, Union Minister Ananth Kumar and MP for Mysuru Prathap Simha during his visit to Raju’s family.

“Mr. Shah has visited the State, particularly Mysuru, many times before but had never made an effort to visit the family. Thus it is safe to presume in the light of ensuing elections that the money was paid with an intent to woo the voters,” the complaint said.

The complaint added that the visit to Raju’s house was advertised on the front page of a daily and it clearly shows that their intention was to gain sympathy and polarise views.

BJP general secretary Shobha Karandlaje denied the allegation and said Mr. Shah never handed over the cheque to the family members. She came down heavily on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for allegedly violating the model code of conduct by distributing cash to voters during his campaign in Mysuru on Thursday.

“There is photographic evidence showing the Chief Minister giving out money from his wallet. It is irresponsible on part of the Chief Minister to do so,” she said. The BJP lodged a complaint with the EC against Mr. Siddaramaiah later in the day.