Bhubaneswar, 21 October (H.S.): The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Tuesday lodged a formal complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha against School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond, BJP’s Nuapada by-election candidate Jay Dholakia, and the management of an educational institution in Nuapada district, alleging violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

Addressing the media after meeting the CEO, senior BJD leader Lenin Mohanty said that Minister Gond had visited an educational institution in Nuapada on October 20 to attend a programme organised under the banner of Gond Samaj, where he allegedly made political remarks and campaign-related promises in support of the BJP candidate.

“The event, though held under the banner of the Gond Samaj, was overtly political in nature and aimed at influencing voters in favour of Jay Dholakia,” Mohanty stated, terming it a clear breach of the Model Code of Conduct.

He further said, “As per Election Commission guidelines, no educational institution can be used for political purposes once the election process is underway. Despite the MCC being in force, the Minister’s participation in the event and his political statements constitute a serious violation.”

The BJD delegation has demanded a thorough enquiry and stringent action against all those involved, including the Minister, the BJP candidate, and the concerned institution, which is reportedly government-aided.

According to party sources, the CEO has assured the BJD delegation that a detailed investigation will be initiated and necessary action will be taken as per election norms.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda