Bhubaneswar: Representatives of all political parties in Odisha today urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure free and fair polls in the state.
While Congress Leader and LoP Narasimha Mishra complained Muscle power are used by Both BJD and BJP, his party urged the ECI team to intensify its efforts to acquaint the voters with the use of the EVM and VVPAT machines and ensure the restrictions put in place during the model code of conduct is strictly adhered to by all political parties.
He added they have also requested the commission to rein in alleged unauthorised use of power, government machinery and monetary transaction by the ruling BJD government in Odisha and by the BJP government at the Centre.
BJD urged to stop funding through Petrol Pump and Gas agency,targeting Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
BJD also gave case study of recently concluded Bijepur byelection,where lots of violence was seen also a party worker and supporter of Susant Singh was killed,BJD at that timecomplained of Cash was freely flowed to voters through Petrol Pump
“Besides, we urged the ECI take necessary steps to stop the circulation of fake news and character assassination of political leaders on social media, and make necessary provisions to add the poll expenses in the name of the candidate contesting the polls if he/she engages star campaigner
The CPI leader and former MLA Narayan Reddy demanded the ECI for removal of the EVMs and reintroduction of the ballot paper in the upcoming elections.
