New Delhi The Election Commission on Monday said that former Madhya Pradesh chief minister, Kamal Nath, had violated its advisory related to campaigning by using the word “item” for a BJP candidate. The EC advised the Congress leader not to use such terms in public during the period of the Model Code of Conduct.
The poll panel issued a notice to Kamal Nath after he used the jibe against BJP candidate, Imarti Devi, at a poll rally a few days ago. This drew angry reactions from the ruling party.
Addressing a poll meeting last week in Gwalior’s Dabra town; whose assembly seat Imarti Devi is contesting for, Kamal Nath said the Congress candidate was a “simple person” unlike his opponent who was an “item”.
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Following a complaint by the BJP and reference by the National Commission for Women, the EC served the notice to Kamal Nath.
The Commission on Monday issued orders against the Congress leader. “The Commission hereby advises Kamal Nath, ex-chief minister Madhya Pradesh that while making public utterances he should not use any such word or statement during the period of Model Code of Conduct,” the order said.
The order stated that Kamal Nath’s usage of the word “item” for a lady “…constitutes violation” of advisory issued by the Commission relating to the model code.
Bypolls to 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly seats will be held on November 3.