EC seeks proof from Cong for graft claims against BJP; Cong asks what about our complaints

The EC, in its notice, said the Congress had “prima facie” violated the Model Code of Conduct. While general statements about corruption are made in campaigns, “specific accusations and charges need to be segregated as the same must be backed by verifiable facts”, it said.

According to the EC notice, the ad’s accusations suggesting all levels of government were compromised, “has the potential of fomenting a feeling of distrust and undermining the legitimacy of the governance system at large, which otherwise, inter-alia, is vital for the smooth conduct of the poll itself”.

The EC asked Shivakumar to submit evidence of the “rates for different categories of officials”, by 7 pm on Sunday, or show reasons why it should not take action.

The EC notice coincided with the Congress approaching it on Saturday, seeking action against PM Narendra Modi for comments at a rally in Karnataka accusing the Congress of “backdoor political negotiations” with those linked to terrorism.

The PM, the Congress said “tried to mislead the voters” and that he was “clearly aware of what he is trying to achieve”.

It also brought up its earlier complaints against BJP leaders and said: “… absolutely no action has been taken… Obviously it leaves an unmistakable impression that this Commission is either unwilling or helpless in acting against those (in) power”.

The Congress warned that the EC risked “setting a precedent of helpless inaction that will go down in infamy”, and that the PM knows this well.

The Karnataka Congress separately filed a police complaint against Modi over his comments.