Mangalsutra distribution not against poll code: EC

The Election Commission has held that the mangalsutras being distributed by the BJP among woman voters across the state is not in violation of the model code of conduct.

The Election Commission (EC) has held that the mangalsutras being distributed by the BJP among woman voters across the state is not in violation of the model code of conduct. The EC has,however ordered that the money spent on it will have to be counted in the partys poll expenditure.

The EC has considered mangalsutras as a mere accessory,and its distribution not amounting to the violation of the model code of conduct. But,the expenditure incurred on it will have to be counted in the partys poll accounts, Deputy CEO Manoj Daxini told Newsline on Monday.

The BJPs move to distribute mangalsutras with a lotus pendant embossed on it as a part of its poll campaign had come under the EC scanner,and state CEO Anita Karwal had even asked district election officers to inquire into it.

The office of the state CEO has,meanwhile,called for a detailed report on the alleged distribution of currency notes among voters by Congress candidate Prabhaben Taviad contesting the Dahod Lok Sabha seat.

She is alleged to have distributed money among voters while campaigning at Lilva Thakore village in her constituency on April 18. The Jhalod Mamlatdar has already lodged a police complaint in this connection.

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