CEO asks ADG to probe poll code flout complaint against Saraka

The chief electoral officer (CEO) on Friday requested the ADG (law and order) to investigate allegations made by the BJP against law minister Jagannath Saraka that his aides had allegedly scolded and manhandled voters in a Rayagada village.

Bhubaneswar: The chief electoral officer (CEO), Odisha, on Friday requested the additional director general of police (ADG), law and order, to investigate allegations made by the BJP against law minister Jagannath Saraka that his aides had allegedly scolded and manhandled voters in a village in Rayagada district when they questioned the minister about drinking water problems.

The CEO also asked ADG (law and order) to provide an action taken report within 24 hours.

A BJP delegation met the CEO on Friday and informed him about the minister's alleged poll code violation. BJP state spokesperson, Satyabrata Panda said, "The minister did not protest against this despicable act by his aides. Two victims, Harekrushna Behera and Harendra Gouda, later lodged complaints with the local police, but no action has been taken against the aides. The CEO should intervene in the matter and take action against the police."

The CEO's office has forwarded the copy of the petition along with a photocopy of the FIR filed by Behera before IIC Ambadola and a video clip to the ADG (law & order) for an inquiry into the matter.

The BJP also lodged a complaint with the CEO about police personnel dancing to the tune of an election campaign song of the BJD at Berhampur.

"This is a clear case of violation of the election code of conduct. From this type of behaviour of the cops, we can imagine how they will work without favouring any party," said the spokesperson.

A BJD delegation, meanwhile, lodged a complaint against Bhubaneswar BJP MP candidate Aparajita Sarangi for allegedly using a child in her election campaign.

"Sarangi has been using children in BJP election meetings," stated the BJD memorandum.