Did RJD Uncover Poll Code Violations in Bihar's Motihari?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ECI takes action against poll violations.
- RJD raises concerns over BJP's conduct.
- Voter slips allegedly aimed to influence voters.
- Strong voter turnout recorded on polling day.
- Integrity of electoral process remains under scrutiny.
Patna, Nov 11 (NationPress) As the second and final phase of the Assembly elections unfolded in Bihar, the Election Commission of India (ECI) took decisive action on Tuesday by filing an FIR against specific individuals for the "circulation and distribution" of voter slips within a polling booth located in Motihari district.
Two individuals have been apprehended for breaching the model code of conduct, according to the polling authority.
This incident came to light after the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) raised concerns over a "flagrant violation" of electoral rules, allegedly executed by a polling agent associated with the BJP candidate at booths 229 and 230 in the Motihari Assembly.
The RJD accused the BJP candidate of engaging in a coercive election campaign on polling day, sharing images and videos on their X handle that depicted voter slips being openly displayed, suggesting an attempt to influence voters.
In their post, the party stated, "In booths 229 and 230 of Motihari Assembly, voters are being intentionally shown photographs and slips featuring election symbols inside the booth, distributed by the BJP polling agent! Similar reports are emerging from all booths in Motihari."
They also criticized the Election Commission for its inaction regarding violations of the model code, asserting that the distribution of such voter slips, which included images of candidates, was not only unethical but also profoundly illegal.
The voter slips, purportedly distributed by BJP polling agents to voters, allegedly showcased images of the NDA candidate alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with an appeal to re-elect the Nitish-led government.
The ECI promptly acknowledged the situation and confirmed that a case was registered against the offenders, which resulted in the detention of two individuals.
Meanwhile, the second phase of polling commenced energetically this morning, with a significant turnout of people, including women, gathering to cast their votes across multiple constituencies.
By 9 a.m., more than 14 percent of voters had participated, indicating a robust voter turnout. The constituencies with the highest engagement included Araria (15.34 percent), Arwal (14.95 percent), Aurangabad (15.43 percent), and Banka (15.14 percent), while others such as Kaimur, Katihar, and Nawada saw over 13 percent polling by 9 a.m.