GUWAHATI: The Assam state election commission has ordered a probe into the complaint filed by the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) alleging violation of the model code of conduct during campaign for the Guwahati Municipal Corporation election by chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
According to AJP Kamrup-Metro unit president Sanjeev Bora’s petition, the chief minister made an announcement to include 1,000 more needy women for financial assistance under the state government’s Orunodoi scheme from each ward and grant Rs 10 crore for the development of each ward.
Bora alleged gross violation of the MCC, corrupt practices and electoral offences under the provisions of the Representation of People’s Act, 1951 and IPC. The state election commission secretary asked the Kamrup (Metro) deputy commissioner to conduct the enquiry.
“The AJP firmly believes that the act of Sri Sarma in inducing the voters by offering: firstly, an extension of Aurnudoi (Orunodoi) scheme by including 1000 more persons from each ward and secondly offering Rs. 10 crores to each ward for development activities if they vote for the party candidate in power tantamount to a deliberate attempt to interfere with respect to Free Exercise of Electoral Rights of the voters and an Inducement/Undue Influence to voters within the meaning of Section 123 of RP Act and Section 171 of IPC apart from gross Violation of Model Code of Conduct prescribed by ECI under Election Laws,” Bora’s petition said.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) also moved the commission on Monday, demanding action against the CM citing alleged MCC violation. AAP state unit coordinator Bhaben Choudhury said Sarma’s announcement of allotting Rs 10 crore for road development in each of the 60 wards is a violation of the MCC. The GMC election is scheduled for April 22.
