The Election Commission of India (ECI) sent a notice to Assam’s Urban Development and Irrigation Minister Ashok Singhal. In this, an explanation has been sought for the violation of the model code of conduct during the election campaign for the by-election to be held on October 30. The notice was issued following a complaint by Congress MLA and Leader of Opposition in the Assam Assembly, Devvrat Saikia. Earlier, the Election Commission had warned Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to “exercise restraint” and follow the model code of conduct while making public statements.
Saikia, in his complaint, alleged that at an election rally in Gosaigaon, one of the five constituencies, Singhal said that there would be no development in the region if voters did not vote for the BJP. The embankment will start within two months after voting for the ruling party. The BJP is backing alliance partner UPPL candidate Jiron Basumatary, who has been fielded from Gosaigaon. During the election campaign, Singhal clarified that voting for Basumtari is equivalent to voting for BJP.
Singhal had said during the election rally that “clapping is not enough, you have to vote. Give with one hand and take with the other. First you give, then I will give you / I will return the favor”. He said that if tomorrow people of Congress, BPF (Bodoland People’s Front) and AIUDF (All India United Democratic Front) come and explain and ask for votes, then the work of embankment will not start. Actually, BPF and AIUDF are regional opposition parties.
Also Read – One day India will have entire Kashmir: Western Air Command chief
Singhal said that if people support the government, then more benefits will be received but, if BPF, Congress, AIUDF support then benefits will not be available. After going through the transcripts of the speech, the Election Commission agreed that Singhal had violated the provisions of the model code of conduct. The notice issued by the Commission said, “The Commission is of the view that by making the above statement and holding the election meeting without the permission of the competent authority, you have violated the provisions of the Model Code of Conduct.”
The by-election in Gosaigaon seat is being held after the sitting MLA (Member of Legislative Assembly) Majendra Narzari of the ruling United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) died due to corona. Apart from Gosaigaon, Thawara, Mariani, Tamulpur and Bhabnipur will go to polls on October 30. Campaigning for the bypoll ended on Wednesday evening. The counting of votes will take place on November 2.
