Poll code violation: EC issues notice to BJP Jamshedpur candidate

Bidyut Baran Mahato claimed providing aid to fire victims families was 'not a violation' of the code of conduct

The district administration of East Singhbhum has issued a showcause notice to BJP candidate, Bidyut Baran Mahato for distributing money among fire victims in Punasia village, officials said.

Ghatsila sub-divisional officer, Girija Shankar Prasad has issued the notice to Mahato for violating the code of conduct and asked why action should not be initiated against him.

Returning Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner of East Singhbhum, Dr Amitabh Kaushal said the distribution of money among the affected families was in violation of the code of conduct.

Several houses were reduced to ashes after a fire broke out in the Punasia village under Ghatsila sub-division on Thursday.

Mahato, who has switched from JMM to BJP to contest the parliamentary poll from Jamshedpur constituency, however claimed providing aid to fire victims families was "not a violation" of the code of conduct.

Polling for the Jamshedpur parliamentary constituency was held in the second phase of three-phased polling in Jharkhand on April 17.