EC slaps Azam Khan with fresh notice over poll code

The Election Commission Wednesday issued fresh notice to Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan for "persistently" and "continuously" violating the model code of conduct.

Azam Khan along with the Bharatiya Janata Party's Amit Shah was banned by the poll panel April 11 from campaigning in Uttar Pradesh for allegedly making provocative speeches.

The commission later lifted the ban on Shah after he apologised and gave an assurance that he will be more careful with his utterances.

Azam Khan said Friday he would move the Supreme Court against the poll panel's order barring him from campaigning in the state.

The Uttar Pradesh minister also alleged that the Election Commission was biased against Muslims.

The EC notice issued Wednesday said: "The commission has noted with deep concern that even after that (the earlier notice) you are persistently, continuously and wilfully indulging in violating the provisions of the Model Code of Conduct."

It said the panel has received complaints that instead of complying with the order dated April 11, Khan made attempts to circumvent it.

"Now, therefore, the commission gives you an opportunity to explain your stand in making the above said statement before 5 p.m. April 25," it said.