The Election Commission (EC) on Friday censured Delhi Chief Minister and national convener of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Arvind Kejriwal for violating para 1(4) of the model code of conduct for making certain statements to the effect of promoting abetment of the offence of bribery to the electors, in a public meeting held at Mapusa in Bardez taluk of north Goa on January 8.
The Commission has warned Mr. Kejriwal of stern action in case of similar violation in the future.
It may be recalled that Mr. Kejriwal had told the people at the public meeting to accept the money if some parties were distributing them, but to vote only for AAP.
The AAP had later justified the statement saying Mr. Kejriwal had not asked for a quid pro quo, but asked the people to accept money and vote for those parties. The BJP had filed a complaint with the EC saying it was a breach of model code of conduct.
PTI adds:
“...The Election Commission hereby censures you for violating...provisions of MCC (Model Code of Conduct) and expects that you shall be more circumspect in your public utterances during election time.
“You may also note that in case of similar violation of MCC in future, the Commission shall take stern action against you and your party, using all powers available to it including action under Para 16A of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968,” it said in its order issued on Friday.
Para 16A gives the poll panel power to “suspend or withdraw recognition of a recognised political party for its failure to observe Model Code of Conduct or follow lawful directions and instructions of the Commission”.
Reacting to the order, Mr. Kejriwal said the EC is wrong and he will challenge it in the court.
“EC order agnst me completely wrong. Lower court gave order in my favor. EC ignored court’s order. Will challenge EC’s latest order in court,” Mr. Kejriwal tweeted.