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Journalism of Courage
BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Anand, Mitesh Patel, as well as the party’s candidate for Khambhat Assembly bypolls, Chirag Patel, have been served showcause notices by Election Commission for allegedly violating the model code of conduct by undertaking joint public meetings at “temple premises”.
The returning officer of Anand and the election officer of Khambhat, on Thursday, served notices to Mitesh and Chirag, respectively, seeking a reply within two days for allegedly holding “campaign rallies” at temples at Ralej, Metpur, Shakkarpur, Jalungh, Undhel, Rangpur and Kodwa in Khambhat on April 20 and 21.
The Religious Institutions (Prevention of Misuse) Act-1988 prohibits any political activity at places of religious worship.
The notice stated, “Despite the fact that all political parties have been informed in writing about the rules, you ultilised the premises of religious places and institutions in the villages for undertaking political campaign. Please note that the reply to this notice, along with the evidence, must be submitted to this office within two days. failing which, suitable action will be initiated in view of the violation of the model code of conduct.”
Officials said the showcause notices have been issued based on a complaint filed by an “alert citizen”, who had submitted photographs of the two BJP candidates campaigning.
Anand district BJP president Rajesh Patel said the candidates would replied to the notices in their personal capacity. “The candidates are required to reply to the notices and they will do so in the stipulated time… Almost all campaigns in village end up being held close to temples as a common gathering ground. Even Congress candidates have been holding public meetings near temples… The candidates will explain their stand to the election officers.”
