Election Comission seeks report on Modi’s allegation against Chidambaram

Chennai: The Election Commission has sought a report from district officials over BJP leader Narendra Modi’s allegation that wrist watches with pictures of finance minister P. Chidambaram were being distributed to voters but no formal complaint had been received so far.

“We have seen that (allegation made by Modi). We have sought a report from the District Collector. It is only an allegation (which is) not backed with proof”, state Chief Electoral Officer Praveen Kumar said here. He said no formal complaint has been received about the alleged distribution of the watches.

Addressing a rally in Ramanathapuram on Thursday, Mr Modi had said he was showed a watch with Mr Chidambaram’s picture and Congress’ symbol which he said were being distributed to voters and urged the EC to take the matter “seriously” and probe it.

To a question on Mr Modi holding a political rally in an educational institution here last week, Mr Kumar said the Returning Officer has sent a report saying the meeting was held at short notice and security reasons were also considered.