By IANS,
New Delhi : The Election Commission Thursday issued notice to Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav after his activists were filmed distributing money to potential voters.
Asking him to explain why he violated the model code of conduct, which came into force March 2 when the Lok Sabha elections were announced, the poll panel asked Mulayam Singh to reply by March 14.
The commission will take action if the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister fails to answer by that day, the panel said.
The commission took cognizance of reports in television channels showing Mulayam Singh holding a public gathering at his Saifai village in Etawah district Wednesday. He is expected to contest the Lok Sabha election from the neighbouring district of Mainpuri.
According to the footage, Mulayam Singh’s supporters distributed Rs.100 currency notes among a large number of people at the gathering, in his presence.
“It is apparent that the distribution of money in your presence has been made with a view to soliciting votes and support for yourself and your party,” the statement said.
The model code of conduct provides that all parties and candidates shall avoid scrupulously all activities which are ‘corrupt practices’.