Election Commission behaving like BJP's 'puppet', says Congress after Modi's Ranip 'roadshow'

Congress on Thursday accused Election Commission of behaving like BJP's "puppet" by not acting against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, the party alleged, had  violated model code of conduct by holding a “roadshow” after casting his vote in Ahmedabad’s Ranip.

PM Modi had walked a certain distance to greet people standing on both sides of the road outside the polling booth and stood on the foot-board of his car, waiving to the crowd.

Reacting to the move, senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot said, “PM Modi’s road show after casting vote is a clear case of violation of the model code of conduct. EC it seems is working under pressure from PM and PMO.”

Addressing a press conference, Congress party spkesperson Randeep Surjewala accused Election Commission (EC) of being a “puppet” of Prime Minister Modi.

He further said, “It was shameful for the EC that Chief Election Commissioner, who has been a Personal Secretary (PS) to Modi, is working like one today.”

Surjewala said, “The Election Commission was quick to file FIRs for telecasting Rahul Gandhi’s interview but doesn’t take any action against PM Modi. Why are there double standards by EC.”

“Gujarat elections will not be decided by photo-ops, sea planes and roadshows. It will be decided on progress and issues related to development,” Sujrewala added further.

Also Read | Gujarat Election Second Phase LIVE Updates: Congress attacks EC over PM Modi's 'roadshow' after casting vote

Earlier on Wednesday, the Election Commission had directed the Chief Electoral Officer of Gujarat to initiate necessary action by filing FIR against Rahul Gandhi and asked the leader to reply by 5 pm on 18^th December over his interview to TV Channels.

‘Explain why action should not be taken against you for violating provisions of MCC, failing which Commission will decide matter without any further reference to you,’ an Election Commission notice to Rahul Gandhi read.

Voting for the second and final phase of assembly elections in Gujarat was held on Thursday in 93 constituencies spread over 14 districts of Central and North Gujarat.

The results will be declared on 18 December.