DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 26 (MExN): The Naga People’s Front (NPF) has lodged a complaint with the Election Commission alleging that the NDPP-BJP alliance in the state has violated the Election Model Code of Conduct.
In a letter to the Chief Election Officer, Nagaland, Associate Press Secretary of the NPF, Atou Liezietsu alleged that the NDPP-BJP alliance “has, through full, front page advertisements in the local daily newspapers today (February 26, 2018), blatantly violated the Model Code of Conduct by way of making a slew of promises.”
These promises, according to the NPF, includes “promising 100% funding of Centrally-sponsored schemes for Northeast region (which was earlier in the ratio of 90:10) and to provide 5300 crore for infrastructure in the next three years; promising Rs 10,000 crore for roads in Nagaland; promising Rs 3000 crore for Dimapur-Kohima railway line; promising Rs 800 crore for power connectivity; and promising Rs 1800 crore for Kohima Smart City.
The NPF reminded that Election Commission of India had issued a clear-cut Model Code of Conduct for all political parties and candidates in the fray to strictly adhere to in the run up to the polls to ensure free and fair elections; Political parties and candidates are required not to indulge in anything repugnant to the ideals and principles enshrined in the Constitution, and directed to avoid making promises which are likely to vitiate the purity of the election process or exert undue influence on the voters in exercising their franchise, it pointed out.
It further reminded that from the time elections are announced by the Election Commission of India, Ministers and other authorities are specifically directed not to announce any financial grants in any form or promises thereof; or make any promise of construction of roads, etc.
Stating that the NDPP-BJP has violated these codes, the NPF asked the Election Commission of India to take cognizance of these acts as “corrupt practices” and offences under the election law, and take stringent action as per the laws at the earliest.
