Paswan’s Muslim CM call invites EC notice

Singh alleged that the LJP leader’s promise not only violated the model code of conduct but provisions of the IPC and the Representation of People Act, as it aroused the electorate’s ‘‘communal feelings’’.

Kathuria had earlier moved the Supreme Court, alleging that Paswan was whipping up communal feelings for electoral gains in Bihar. While disposing of his petition, the apex court gave him liberty to approach the EC on the issue.

The Commission considered both the applications and sent them to the LJP leader seeking his comments by October 24, the sources said.

Reacting to the EC’s notice, CPI general secretary A B Bardhan who is contesting Bihar elections in alliance with the LJP said, ‘‘It cannot be considered communal, it is only an appeal. If projecting someone from the Kurmi community as Chief Minister does not violate the model code as it evokes caste sentiments, how can projecting a Muslim become a violation? What applies for one, should also apply for the other as well.’’

Kalyan Singh in party twist

NEW DELHI: The EC on Thursday refused to liquidate former UP CM Kalyan Singh’s erstwhile Rashtriya Kranti Party (RKP) as the Commission had received a contrary claim objecting to its merger with the BJP. Besides, the EC said it has not received any official communication either from Singh or his party members of RKP’s ‘‘alleged’’ merger with the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha polls in 2004. —ENS