Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Electoral Officer Teeka Ram Meena said it was wrong if somebody uses derogatory language against a political leader or party. “It is against model code of conduct. Decency has to be maintained. They are responsible political leaders,” he added.
Mr Meena said the Yogi statement was a national issue hence EC is the final authority. “I can’t comment on what EC will do. Model code of conduct is applicable to all parties. There are certain norms and restraints to be maintained in public discourse.If they don’t do it, the EC will intervene,” he said.
On comments made by LDF convenor A Vijayaraghavan against Ramya Haridas, the CEO said action would be taken after getting the final report. “I said when a woman candidate is there we have to be doubly careful. The district authorities are looking into it,” he said.
Meanwhile Rajya Sabha MP and actor Suresh Gopi who is the NDA candidate from Thrissur has been served a notice by District Election Officer and District Collector T.V. Anupama citing bre-ach of the election code of conduct for invoking the name of Lord Ayyapa in his speech at Thekki-nkkad Maidan on Friday.
The collector has said in her notice that it is against the code of conduct to seek votes invoking sentiments of caste and religion and Kerala's Chief Electoral Officer Teeka Ram Meena had issued guidelines for elections citing that the name of ‘Ayyappan’ could not be used.
“Hence, it is found that your statement at the meeting is against the guidelines of the CEO and you are to give an explanation within 48 hours of receiving this notice,” the notice says.
In the controversial speech of the actor-cum-politician is heard saying that he is speaking to a cross section of people in Kerala and it is in the context of Sabarimal issue that he was seeking votes.
In his speech, Mr Gopi had urged the Ayyappa devotees to give a befitting reply that would not only bring down ‘this monstrous government (state government) but one which would resonate all across the country.’
