Riding a camel during his poll campaign has put Chief Parliamentary Secretary (CPS) and Congress nominee from Mahendragarh, Rao Daan Singh, in trouble.
Sources said the Mahendragarh Returning Officer (RO) has put Singh on notice wherein he has been asked to file his explanation within next 24 hours in this regard otherwise legal process would be initiated against him.
The RO has taken the action following the complaint filed by Naresh Kadian, chairman of People for Animals Haryana in this regard.
In his complaint attached with the picture, Kadian said Rao Daan Singh carried out his poll campaign by riding on a camel at Unchi Bhadore village in Mahendragarh district on Saturday.
“The camel was badly abused with a rope crossed through his nose, violating the section 3 and 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act, 1960 as this animal is neither a publicity and political tool nor a vehicle of pride,” said the complainant.
Kadian informed as per the directives of the Election Commission of India (ECI), the use of animals like horses, ponies, donkeys, elephants, camels, bulls for election campaign is subject to cruelty in different ways. Moreover, the ECI has already issued an advisory asking the political parties not to use any animals for campaign in any manner, he added.
“Despite the advisory, the animals are being used not only to carry loads beyond the permissible limits but also to paint slogans and election symbols on them by using harmful chemicals. Such act is clear violation of the ECI’s directives and an punishable offence too,” said Kadian.
The complainant has also sought registration of an FIR against Rao Daan Singh for violation of poll code.
Confirming the action, the Mahendragarh RO Satish Yadav said further action would be taken after receiving explanation from Daan Singh.