Congress alleges MCC violation by Odisha minister in Kendrapara

BJD's Aul legislator & minister, Pratap Keshari Deb was accused of violating the poll model code of conduct (MCC) during campaigning in Kendrapara.  

Former Congress MLA, Devendra Sharma brought the allegation against the incumbent MLA, saying that the BJD leader, who is the minister in the government, held a procession on Frirday without permission from the State Electoral Officer.

Sharma pointed out that a bike rally was taken out from Patrapur Bridge to Laxmi Vihar temple which was in violation of the MCC. 

The Congress leader has filed an FIR at the Aul Police Station in this regard.

“Only 10 motorcycles can be allowed without the permission. An election rally with over 1000 motorcycles amid bursting of crackers was taken out from Patrapur Bridge to Laxmi Vihar temple on Saturday. This is illegal and violates the MCC. We lodged an FIR at the Aul Police Station,” Sharma said, demanding criminal proceedings against Deb.  

Also Read | ‘Odia pride’ to be BJP’s issue for 2024 elections, says party’s Cuttack LS candidate Bhartruhari Mahtab

However, the president of the BJD’s Aul unit, Sanatan Mishra dismissed the allegation. “We had no such programme to violate the model code of conduct. Our MP candidate came to Barahi temple and some of his well-wishers met him. The allegation made by the Congress leader is baseless. If we had organised such a political programme, we would have taken permission,” Mishra explained. 

No reaction was received from the Aul legislator.