EC showcauses Mamata for poll code violation

The Election Commission has showcaused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for violation of the model code of conduct, Chief Election Commissioner Naseem Zaidi said here on Thursday.

"It was brought to the knowledge of the commission that a statement was made in Asansol that Asansol district will be set up, and (there were) certain other utterances which are contained in our notice," Zaidi told the media.

The full bench of the Election Commission of India held day-long meetings with police and administration officials and also met delegations from various political parties ahead of the next phase of the state assembly polls scheduled for April 17.

However, an unmoved Banerjee said she stood by whatever she had said.

"They (the opposition) have complained to the Election Commission against me. Whatever I have said I stand by my point. I still stand by my point.

"The CPI-M, Congress and the BJP have their men in the Election Commission. Even if 40 letters are sent, that would be fruitless. Can't rob me of my democratic rights. Whatever I have said, I have done the right thing. I will say the same thing thousands of times," she said at an election rally.

Banerjee said she would ask the opposition to reply for the canards and disinformation spread against her.

"I will take replies against the canards and disinformation spread against me. And also against the injustice done to me, and the character assassination they have indulged in."