Swinging into prompt action the Election Commission on Tuesday (17th March) ordered filing of a criminal case against BJP candidate Varun Gandhi for his alleged inflammatory speech with communal overtones. The commission also served notice to BJP seeking its explanation on this issue.

 

The three-member Commission met on Tuesday (17th March) and discussed the speeches of Varun Gandhi, in Pilibhit where he is being fielded. Taking tough stand the EC directed the Uttar Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer to file a case under Indian Penal Code and Representation of the People Act against Mr. Gandhi. It also ordered issue of notice to BJP and Gandhi for alleged violation of Model Code of Conduct. The EC also ordered transfer of district officials and suspended two others for alleged dereliction of duty.

 

In his alleged speech Varun made inflammatory comments against the members of a minority community. In the meeting he said that, if anyone raises a hand against Hindus and if they thought Hindus were weak and leaderless, he would cut his hand. The comments drew sharp criticism not only from other parties but also from his own party BJP and other NDA allies. However, Mr. Gandhi claimed that the video footage of his speeches was tampered with.