EC issues showcause notice to five MNF legislators

Aizawl, June 4 (UNI) The Election Commission (EC) has issued showcause notices to five ruling Mizo National Front (MNF) legislators for holding Office of Profit.

In a letter on May 22, the EC had asked the legislators to file a written statement to 'clear' their names against the Office of Profit slur by June 15.

The Mizoram People's Conference Party had filed a petition to the EC naming six MNF legislators, including Mr Rashik Mohan Chakma, Mr Lalthlengliana, Mr K Vanlalauva, Mr D Thangliana, Mr H Vanlalthaliana and Mr R Khawpuithanga, occupying Office of Profit, in violation of clause (1) of the Article 192 of the Constitution.

Mr Chakma was the Executive Member of the Chakma Autonomous District Council and had been drawing salary from CEM and as a legislator.

While Mr Lalthlengliana, Mr Thangliana and Mr Vanlalthaliana are all Chairmen of State-sponsored corporations, Mr Vanlalauva is the Chairman of the Khadi&Village Industries Board and R Khawpuithanga holds the ranks of a Minister of State and adviser to Chief Minister Zoramthangla.

In 1975, the then Union Territory government of Mizoram had passed a Removal of Disqualification Act in which board chairmen, autonomous district council chairman, vice chairman and CEM had been exempted from disqualification.

In an amendment by the State Legislative on May 4 this year, corporation chairmen were also exempted.

However, the amendment passed by the Mizoram state Legislative Assembly was approved by the Governor on May 12.

Dr Kenneth Chawngliana, the petitioner and a general secretary of the Mizoram People's Conference Party on Friday said Mr Chakma had not been included in the EC's showcause notice as it wanted more information on his matter.

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