Kejriwal put on notice for ‘treachery’ comments against Congress, BJP

New Delhi: Taking serious exception to AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal’s assertion in Ame-thi that any vote for either the Congress or the BJP would be “treachery against God and the country”, the Election Commission on Sunday issued a showcause notice asking him to file a reply by May 13.

Providing a copy of the CD to Mr Kejriwal, the EC said: “The commission is, prima facie of the opinion that by making the statement, you have violated provisions of the model code of conduct.” It reminded him that the code mandates that political parties don’t appeal to caste or communal feelings for securing votes.

Acting on a complaint by the BJP, the EC referred to the speech of Mr Kejriwal in which he had allegedly said on May 2, “ I once again say even if a single vote is cast for the Congress or BJP, then you will commit treachery against God and the country”.

The Commission reminded him of the provisions of the Model Code that there shall be no appeal to caste or communal feelings for securing votes and all political parties and candidates shall avoid scrupulously all activities which are 'corrupt practices and offences under the election law.

It also reminded the former Delhi Chief Minister about section 171 C of lndian Penal Code dealing with any direct or indirect interference or attempt to interfere by any person with the free exercise of any electoral right.