The Election Commission on Thursday issued a show-cause notice to Assam Minister and BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma for allegedly making threatening remarks against Opposition leader Hagrama Mohilary of the Bodoland People’s Front. He has been asked to respond to the notice by 5 pm on April 2.
“...the Commission is, prima facie, of the view that that Sarma has violated the above said provisions of the Model Code of Conduct. Now, therefore, the Commission gives you an opportunity to explain your position in making above statement on or before 5 pm of April 2, failing which the Commission shall take a decision without any further reference to you,” the notice read.
The notice was issued by the EC following a complaint filed by the Congress party against Himanta Biswa Sarma for allegedly making threatening remarks against opposition leader Hagrama Mohilary of the Bodoland People’s Front. The Bodoland People’s Front is an ally of the Congress in Assam.
Assembly elections in Assam are being held in three phases. While the first phase was on March 27, voting in the second phase is underway on Thursday. The last phase is on April 6.
The notice to Sarma cited various provisions of the model code, including the one dealing with refraining from making unverified allegations against political rivals and, avoiding “corrupt practices” and offences under the election law, such as bribing of voters, intimidation of voters, impersonation of voters.
It also quoted a transcript of the speech provided by the state election machinery.