EC issues notices to Jharkhand Chief Minister

The Election Commission has issued notice to Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda for violating the model code of conduct for the Jamshedpur bypolls, scheduled to be held on August 29. The model code, in force since July 24, prohibits any central or state minister from combining their official visit or use of official machinery for electioneering work.

Koda made an official visit to Saraikela district on August 9 from Ranchi and used the state-owned helicopter. From there he went to Jamshedpur in a Government vehicle to be present when JMM candidate Suman Mahto filed his nomination papers.

Koda has been asked to furnish an explanation to the Commission by 3 pm on Saturday.

The Commission also issued notice to the Chief Secretary of Jharkhand asking for an explanation as to why advertisements were issued in newspapers on Independence Day by the Government at the cost of public exchequer during election period with the view to further prospects of the ruling party.