Poll code violation: BJP, Congress file complaints

With poll dates announced for the Assembly elections, complaints of violation of model code of conduct by political leaders and parties are being registered at the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer (OCEO).

In a complaint, the BJP has opposed the removal of writings on the walls of the houses of its workers without giving an opportunity to hear them, though prior permission had been obtained.

The complaint, signed by BJP state general secretary N Ravi Kumar, stated that party workers voluntarily wrote on the walls of their houses, after obtaining permission from the local authorities. Even the Disfigurement Act says that after seeking permission from the authorities concerned, advertisements can be put up on the walls, the complaint states.

"There is no writing inciting any caste, creed or religion. However, the writings were erased in the name of code of conduct. This is against the interest of natural justice as the authorities did not issue any notice," the complaint states.

Kumar has requested the OCEO to direct the authorities not to erase the writings on the walls.

In another complaint, the Congress has sought criminal action to be initiated against BJP national president Amit Shah for his comment against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The complaint, signed by KPCC vice-president V R Sudarshan, states that Shah has violated the Representation of People's Act by making the "not Ahinda but Ahindu (anti-Hindu)" comment against Siddaramaiah at a press conference in Davangere.

Sudarshan has sought criminal action Shah as such remarks not only amounted to violation of Representation of People's Act (RPA) but also a criminal offence under Section 153 of the Indian Penal Code.