BJP asks EC to take action against Arjun Singh

Thiruvananthapuram, Apr 10 (UNI) Describing the recent statements of Union Human Resources Minister Arjun Singh on reservation for other backward classes in Central educational institutions as a ''violation of the model code of conduct,'' the BJP today urged the Election Commission to take stringent action against him.

Addressing a media conference here, BJP Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu said such statements were clear violation of the model code of conduct and if action was not taken against the Minister it would become a ''mockery.'' Mr Naidu, who is in Kerala for his party's election campaign, urged Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to drop Mr Arjun Singh from the Cabinet.

He alleged that such statements were aimed at getting 'political mileage' in view of the elections to five states.

Stating that the internal difference between the UPA government and the Left Front was worsening day-by-day, Mr Naidu said it was ''an ulta pulta alliance.'' After the elections anything could happen and even there was a possiblity for a mid-term poll to the Parliament.

The Government's decision to take head count of Muslims in the armed forces, the proposal for an Islamic Bank and a Shariat court would lead to the division of the country, he warned.

Claiming that the 'Lotus' would bloom in the coming Assembly elections, he said the BJP was the only alternative to the Congress and the Left Front in Kerala.

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