The Election Commission should take adequate steps to provide a level playing field to all parties in the coming Assembly elections in five States, national secretary of the Communist Party of India D. Raja said.
He, however, disagreed with the Commission's order to veil the statues of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati and of elephant, her party symbol.
The decision was irrational, he said at a press conference here on Tuesday.
Such a step by the EC would lead to a series of problems, including the allocation of symbols.
Reacting to the EC's response that those who criticised the decision were “ill-informed,” he said: “By the same yardstick, will the EC order the cover other symbols such as hand, cycle and hand pump.”
The CPI considered the coming elections very important. It had decided to field 54 candidates in Uttar Pradesh and put up candidates in the other four States as well. Mr. Raja said the EC should gear up to thwart attempts by some sections to use money and muscle power during the polls. The Commission should ensure that elections were held in a free and fair manner.
Published - January 11, 2012 02:59 am IST
