Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Monday found himself in a spot of bother over his reported statement allegedly inducing voters to accept bribes offered by vote-seekers in the run-up to the State Assembly polls, with the Election Commission slapping him with a show cause notice for alleged violation of Model Code of Conduct and a media association condemning him for his “objectionable” statement.
While addressing an election rally during the weekend, Gadkari had said that journalists could expect “laxmi darshan” during the 10-12 days and asked them to accept money offered by political parties and candidates seeking votes, but vote for development of Maharashtra.
"Now, I am watching your faces and I have some skill of predicting the future by way of face reading. You have an opporunity of "laxrni darshan" in next 10 days. Special people to get foreign rnade, ordinary people to get loeal brand, Am I rightIJ Sisters, elderly sisters....Sarees for old women, Pant shirt for a young boy and all are "Gandhivadis" asking for Rs 5,000/-. in these days of inflation, keep one thing in mind, eat what you wish and drink what you desire. Keep whatever you get. This is the time when illegally earned money can go to poor. Therefore, do not say no to "laxrni". But think while you vote. Your vote should be for the development of Maharashtra,” Gadkari was quoted by the ECI, as saying in an audio and video- recording that is making rounds in the State.
The ECI directed Gadkari to “explain” his stand in the matter by 5 pm on October 8, 2014, “failing which it shall take a decision without further reference to you”.