TN govt challenges EC ban on on-going schemes

Chennai, Mar 31 (UNI) Madras High Court today issued notice to the Election Commission of India (EC) and the state Chief Electoral Officer on a petition seeking to restrain the EC from banning or enforcing the ban of on-going schemes in Tamil nadu.

Mr Justice F M Ibrahim Kalifuallah ordered issuance of the notice while admitting a petition filed by State Revenue Secretary. Further hearing was posted to April 7.

In his petition, Mr S Audiseshiah, State Revenue Secretary, said he was challenging the various ban orders issued by EC interfering with schemes already announced by the state government, which were intended for the benefit of people. ''Such ban orders were arbitrary and went beyond the model code of conduct issued by the EC,,, he contended.

The instructions prohibited the announcement of fresh concessions on new schemes. In the press note on March 1, 2006, there was no reference regarding on-going schemes.

On-going schemes like distribution of dhotis and sarees to those below the poverty line, relief distribution to families who suffered damage in the floods, comprehensive relief and rehabilitation measures for families affected by the Tsunami, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's Farmers' Security Scheme and distribution of additional kerosene and power supply to hut dwellers were suddenly directed to be stopped by various letters issued by the Chief Electoral Officer, ''The ban orders were arbitrary, illegal and went beyond the Model Code of Conduct. The code only prohibited announcement of financial grant in any form and proceeds thereof. It did not prohibit the implementation or continuation of a scheme already announced and on- going schemes could not within its purview. But without reason, the EC was interfering with all on-going schemes,'' he added.

He said if it was to be assumed that all on-going schemes would lure voters, then no elected government could function and continue any scheme even when they were in power. This was not the purport of the Model Code and ban orders had been passed on a misconception.

UNI XR AA VD PC2142