NEW DELHI: The Election Commission issued a show-cause notice to Chief Minister Y.S.Rajasekhara Reddy for allegedly violating the model code of conduct while campaigning for the byelection to the Karimnagar Lok Sabha constituency.

The panel issued the notice on the basis of a statement made by Dr. Reddy at a road show in Mallapur in the constituency, which goes to the bypoll on Monday, about the construction of a road there.

The panel took notice of Mr. Reddy's speech in which he allegedly said "road is being asked for ... now in elections, I can't make any promise.

After elections, I appeal to your MLA to represent your demands and come to me and take the needed signatures. Certainly, I would do the needful.''

Model code

According to the model code, the Commission observed that "party in power whether at the Centre or in the State or States concerned shall ensure that no cause is given for any complaint that it has used its official position for the purpose of its election campaign and in particular announce any financial grants in any form or promises thereof or make any promise of construction of roads, provision of drinking water facilities, etc.''

The panel has given Dr. Reddy time till 11 a.m. on Monday to explain his position as to why action should not be initiated against him.

YSR's reply

Meanwhile, Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy in his reply clarified that he had neither announced any financial grant in any form nor made any promise on laying roads, drinking water facility, etc.

"It is clear from my speech that I did not make any promise because of the election," he said and urged the Commission to drop action in this regard.

Responding to a question on the notice at a press conference, Dr. Reddy said his statement formed part of the regular discharge of his duties. "I hope the clarification will do well to satisfy the Commission," he said.

TDP president N.Chandrababu Naidu, reacting to the Election Commission notice to Dr. Reddy, said, "Let him answer now for making all sorts of promises in violation of the election code."

He alleged that plans were afoot to replicate "Kadapa-type of election victories by using liquor, money and muscle power. It is time Dr. Reddy puts an end to his dictatorial tendencies and vindictive actions against the Opposition and media," he said.

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