Election Commission issues notice to Assam CM for violating model code of conduct

GUWAHATI: Amid the heat of by-elections five assembly constituencies in the state, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a notice to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma seeking an explaination for alleged violation of the model code of conduct during by-election campaigns.

The ECI on Monday issued the notice, following complaints lodged by Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Bhupen Kumar Borah, and Congress Legislative Party leader Debabrata Saikia.

The Congress leaders alleged that, in the capacity of Chief Minister and designated star campaigner for BJP, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has made several announcements at various election meetings held in Bhabanipur, Thowra and Mariani assembly constituencies for establishing medical colleges, bridges, roads, high schools, stadiums, sports complexes etc. and also made announcements about giving financial assistance to self-help groups of tea garden workers and for development projects in the constituencies.

“.on going through the English transcripts of your speeches, received from District Election Officers concerned through chief electoral officer, Assam, it is confirmed that you have made promises and announcements while addressing the gatherings at various places in the constituencies,” the notice read.

“The Commission is of the view that by making the above statements, you have violated the said provision of Model Code of Conduct and the instructions,” said the secretary of Election of India NT Bhutia.

ECI secretary NT Bhutia said in the notice.