Congress released Jharkhand manifesto violating poll code, says Chief Electoral Officer

Last updated:Nov 13, 2024 11:15 PM IST

The state BJP had filed a complaint with the EC seeking action against Congress and JMM for releasing their manifestos during the silent period

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge with Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren and others during the release of Jharkhand INDIA Block Manifesto in Ranchi. (PTI file photo)

Jharkhand’s Chief Electoral Officer K Ravi Kumar on Wednesday said the Congress has released its manifesto for the assembly elections in violation of the model code of conduct and a report in this regard has been submitted to the Election Commission.

The Congress released its manifesto on Tuesday, a day before the first phase of elections in the state. It promised 250 units of free electricity, caste census and filling up of all vacant government posts within a year.

The state BJP had filed a complaint with the European Commission seeking action against the Congress and JMM for releasing their manifestos during the silent period.

“We have sent a detailed report to the EC. Our report also states that the manifesto was released in violation of the Representation of People Act,” Kumar said.

However, the state Congress denied violating the model code of conduct.

Congress spokesperson Rakesh Sinha said, “We do not think this is a violation of election norms. We have released it in our office.” About the JMM manifesto, the officer said, “We have sought a report from the District Election Officer of Ranchi in this regard.” The ruling JMM released its manifesto on Monday and promised 33 percent reservation for women in state jobs.

(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – PTI)