Naveed ul Haq
Budgam, Nov 4: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Budgam bypoll, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi has been served a show cause notice for allegedly conducting late-night political rallies without permission in the constituency.
According to the notice, Nodal Officer for the Model Code of Conduct stated that they have received multiple reports and complaints alleging that the candidate organised campaign events and processions during late night hours on November 1 and November 3, without prior approval from competent authorities.
“Videos of such rallies were widely circulated on social media, prima facie establishing evidence of the violations. It has been observed that such actions disturb the level playing field, vitiate the fairness of the electoral process, and violate the Model Code of Conduct enforced across Budgam district for the ongoing bye-election,” reads the notice.
The candidate has been asked to submit a written response within 24 hours explaining why action should not be taken against him. He has also been warned that any further violation of the Model Code of Conduct will invite stringent legal action.
Meanwhile, reacting to the notice, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi, said the delay during his campaign was unintentional and caused by overwhelming public interaction.
Addressing a press conference at his residence in Budgam, Mehdi said, “I have received the show cause notice from the Election Commission. They have stated that I violated the Model Code of Conduct, but I want to clarify to the administration that I am a native of this constituency. I was born and brought up here. Every mother here considers me her son, every sister sees me as a brother, and the elders treat me like their own child.”
He said while returning from campaigning, he was stopped by supporters expressing their affection and support, which led to a delay. “We had no intention to conduct late-night campaigning without permission. I am myself an advocate and I strictly follow the law,” he added.
Mehdi appealed to the administration to consider the circumstances and emotions of the people, reiterating that there was no deliberate violation of the MCC.
