Assembly polls: RJD MP writes to EC over 'poll code violation' by Bihar goverment

NEW DELHI: RJD's Rajya Sabha MP and national spokesperson Manoj Kumar Jha has written to EC lodging a complaint about violation of the model code of conduct by Bihar govt through direct cash transfer of Rs 10,000 to beneficiaries of Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana.Registering strong protest over the move, Jha, in his complaint addressed to EC, said that cash transfers under the scheme were made by state government on October 17, 24 and 31. He also stated that the next proposed date of disbursement is November 7, which will be three days before the second phase of polling in Bihar. He said the action constitutes "a clear and deliberate" breach of the model code provisions that came into effect on October 6, following announcement of the Bihar assembly election schedule.Jha asked EC to take "immediate and strong action" not only to remedy this specific violation but also to "send a clear message that the constitutional mandate for free and fair elections will be upheld at all costs". The RJD functionary also urged the poll panel to give a written acknowledgement of the complaint and "timely information" on action taken.