EC issues showcause notices two TMC leaders, CPI-M MP

The Election Commission today issued showcause notices two Trinamool Congress leaders and a CPI(M) MP for allegedly violating the model code of conduct.
"Based on reports in the media we have taken action against Anubrata Mandal, Abdur Rezzak Mollah (both Trinamool) and Md Salim (CPI-M). A showcause notice was issued to them today by the concerned returning officers wherefrom the violation was reported," Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dibyendu Sarkar said.
He said the trio have been asked to reply within 24 hours.
"Reports had been published in the media where they made specific statements in violation of the model code of conduct or the election process," the official said without elaborating the specific nature of the violations.

Mandal is Birbhum district president of Trinamool Congress and has been in the news for making "controversial" comments.
Expelled CPI(M) MLA Rezzak Mollah, who had joined the Trinamool this year has been fielded by the party from Bhangar in South 24-Parganas district.
The poll watchdog has also received complaints that at some places civic police volunteers were being used for election-related work.
"Disciplinary action has been initiated against the officer-in-charge of Ulberia police station. A departmental enquiry has been started against him on reports that civic volunteers have been used," Sarkar said.