Odisha Bypoll: BJD Moves CEO Over G20 & Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav Logos In Dharmendra Pradhan’s Poster

Bhubaneswar: The ruling BJD has moved the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Odisha, alleging poll code violation by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who campaigned for BJP nominee Tankadhara Tripathy at Jharsuguda on Sunday.

The regional party alleged that Dharmendra violated the model code of conduct by retweeting and posting on his official Twitter handle a campaign poster with G20 and Logo of 75 Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav logos. “It has been clearly mentioned that such publicity material, which could influence voters, should not be used,” the BJD wrote.

The party demanded strict action against the Union Minister while stating that Odisha BJP has been regularly violating the model code of conduct which is influencing this election. “There should be free and fair elections in Jharsuguda and the Election Commission must take all steps to ensure that the Odisha BJP does not repeat such violations, a pattern which was also seen in earlier by-elections in the state,” it added.

The regional party has also accused Tripathy and his supporters of abusing and threatening BJD workers on May 5 near Mundhra Bastralaya under Jharsuguda police limits. Accusing the BJP of perpetuating electoral violence, the BJD said that they resort to such means fearing defeat in the polls.

This came a day after BJP alleged misuse of government employees and machinery by the ruling BJD in its campaign for Jharsuguda Assembly by-election slated to be held on May 10.