LIVE: EC initiates tough action against Narendra Modi for flashing ‘Lotus’

EC order on Narendra Modi: “The Commission is of the view that by holding that meeting and also by addressing the same today when the polling is going on in the entire state of Gujarat and in different parts of the country, Narendra Modi has violated the provisions of Sections 126 (1)(a) and 126 (l)(b) of R P Act 1951.”

“Therefore, the Commission directs…That complaint/ FIR as the case may be, should be filed against Narendra Modi and all others who were involved in the convening and holding of the said meeting…,” the EC order said.

It has asked the Gujarat Chief Secretary and DGP to send a compliance report by 6 pm today.

It also said that all the TV channels and other electronic media which carried the proceedings of the meeting and displayed the election matter should also be proceeded against under Section 126 (l) (b) “by filing separate complaints/FlRs against those channels.”

The Election Commission has asked the DGP of Gujarat and state chief secretary to initiate action against Narendra Modi for displaying the BJP poll symbol ‘Lotus’ near the poll booth after he cast his vote today.

The poll panel’s action came after Ahmedabad Collector and Returning Officer Roopwant Singh sent a report to the Chief Electoral Officer. “We have sent a report to the CEO. We have sent a preliminary report. Shall submit video clip,” Singh said.

As per the Election Commission norms, if a party candidate canvasses within the radius of 100 metres of a polling booth, then he can be booked for violation of model code of conduct.