Days after Congress leader CP Joshi stirred a controversy with his alleged casteist remarks, the Election Commission (EC) on Saturday issued a notice asking him to file a reply by 11 am on Sunday. The notice was given a day after the BJP lodged a complaint with the EC.
Joshi had on Friday apologised for his casteist remarks after Congress chief Rahul Gandhi disapproved of his comments and asked him to express regret.
The BJP had, however, rejected Joshi's apology, saying the comments "insulted" the Indian culture and the Hindu religion. The Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2018 is scheduled to take place on December 7.
According to EC officials, the notice was served to Joshi by the returning officer of Rajsamand district. Joshi is contesting the December 7 Rajasthan assembly elections from Nathdwara constituency. EC officials said that further course of action in the matter will be decided after the candidate's response.
Addressing a poll meeting in Rajasthan on Thursday, Joshi had reportedly said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP MP Uma Bharti and Hindu activist Sadhvi Ritambhara are from "lower castes" and know nothing of Hinduism.
He said it is the Brahmins who are learned and know of Hinduism.
Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Friday disapproved of Joshi's remarks in a tweet. The Congress chief said the remark is contrary to the party's ideals. Later, Joshi tendered an apology.
The BJP, however, rejected the apology and said Gandhi must take responsibility and express regret.