EC rejects poll code violation plaints against holding of CWC

Two separate complaints of poll code violation have been filed against holding of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on the premises of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel memorial here in Gujarat, which have been rejected, Gujarat Chief Electoral Officer said Wednesday.

Top Congress brass, including party chief Rahul Gandhi, his sister and general secretary Priyanaka Gandhi Vadra, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh, attended the one-day conclave which was held on the premises of the memorial in Sahibaug area Tuesday.

"We received two complaints from Ramesh Patel and Suresh Patel against organisation of the CWC meeting on the premises of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel memorial, saying it was violation of the model code of conduct," said Gujarat CEO S Murlikrishnan.

The top poll officer said the complaints were rejected on the basis of a report filed by the District Development Officer (DDO).

Though the CEO didn't speak about the background of the complainants, sources in Congress claimed the duo are close to the ruling BJP.

The model code of conduct came into force from March 10, when the Election Commission announced the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections that will be held between March 11 and May 19.

Meanwhile, informing about the crackdown on illicit booze, the CEO said liquor worth over Rs 1 crore has been seized since the announcement of elections.

A total of 3074 people have been detained under various sections of the CrPc as a precautionary measures.

Murlikrishnan further said more than 60,000 hoardings and banners have been removed in the state since Sunday.

The CEO said live web-casting of voting process will be conducted in more than 5000 booths, which will be identified at later stage.

On poll preparedness, the CEO said 564 flying squads have been formed. "Moreover, 368 video surveillance teams and 26 accounting teams have started their work. A total of 207 video viewing teams have been formed to monitor the social media content," he added.

Murlikrishnan said more than 10,000 licensed gun-holders, out of total 56,890, have deposited their firearms with police since the model code kicked in.

As per norms, private licensed gun-holders have to submit their weapons once elections are announced.