EC notice to Mulayam on poll code "violation"

The Election Commission on Friday issued a show-cause notice to Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh for allegedly threatening school teachers appointed on contract by the U.P. government to either vote for his party or risk losing permanent status.

Holding that Mr. Singh has prima facie violated the model code of conduct, the EC has given him time till Sunday evening to send his reply, failing which it would take action. “As far as shiksha mitras are concerned, we have done it [made them permanent]...we have done it, now give your vote. If you do not vote, we'll withdraw it,” the EC quoted Mr. Singh as saying at an election meeting on April 3.