Election Commission Issues Notice To Karnataka Over Ads In Telangana Polls

The Election Commission of India on Monday issued a notice to the Karnataka government concerning advertisements of its achievements in Telangana newspapers. The commission requested a response by November 28, 5 pm, following concerns raised by the BJP and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) regarding these advertisements, which are seen as potential violations of the Model Code of Conduct.

The Commission directed the Karnataka government to clarify the circumstances leading to the breach of the Model Code of Conduct and cease all such advertisements immediately. It referenced its earlier instruction from October, stipulating that non-election states must obtain approval from the Commission before publishing ads in newspapers circulated in poll-bound states.

Additionally, the poll body sought an explanation for the lack of disciplinary action against the Secretary-in-charge of the Department of Information and Public Relations in Karnataka, as required under the Model Code of Conduct for the alleged violation.

In another development, the Election Commission withdrew permission granted to the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government in Telangana regarding financial aid disbursed to farmers under the Rythu Bandhu scheme. This action was taken following a state minister's public statement on the initiative, deemed a violation of the Model Code of Conduct.

The decision to withdraw permission was prompted by a request from the Congress party to impose restrictions on the BRS regarding the mention of Rythu Bandhu disbursements in their election campaign.

The Telangana Legislative Assembly election, scheduled for November 30, will witness a closely contested three-party battle involving the BRS, Congress, and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the 119 assembly seats.