BHUBANESWAR: Congress here on Thursday demanded action against Speaker Maheswar Mohanty in connection with seizure of poll materials from a vehicle belonging to Orissa Legislative Assembly (OLA) at Chandanpur in Puri district on Tuesday last.

Meanwhile, Umaballav Rath, a former legislator and PCC secretary, submitted a memorandum to Governor Rameshwar Thakur seeking his intervention in the issue. "Mr. Mohanty, despite being Speaker has violated the model code of conduct imposed for the forthcoming three-tier panchayat elections. He is misusing his position to influence the course of election," Mr. Rath alleged at a press conference held here.

Giving a brief account of circumstances under which the vehicle was handed over to the police, he said Congress supporters were waiting at Damdarpur Bazar to intercept the vehicle that was carrying Biju Janata Dal poster on Tuesday evening last.

"We detected the vehicle coming from Bhubaneswar and stopped it. We immediately informed about the incident to election observer and police who reached the spot and retrieved posters. There were attempts to burn the confiscated poll materials by BJD workers but they could not fully damage it," Mr. Rath said. PCC treasurer Pinaki Mishra said, "the Speaker's post is supposed to be impartial but Mr. Mohanty has demeaned the dignity of the office.

He is seriously trying to influence the election through his clout." Former minister Prasad Harichandan also accused Mr. Mohanty of violating high moral values he should have exhibited publicly for holding speaker's post.

The Congress leaders from Puri district alleged that Mr.

Inquiry ordered

Mohanty, who happened to be legislator from the same district, `handpicked' officers who could help him out in panchayat elections.

"The State Election Commission should take action against Mr. Mohanty for violating guidelines. The officers helping him should also be removed from their duties," they demanded.

Meanwhile, the State Election Commission directed the Puri district collector to inquire into the matter, sources said.

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