Sex slur against mayor: Cong cancels BDO offices gherao programme

Bhubaneswar: In view of model code of conduct issued by the State Election Commission for upcoming panchayat polls, Congress on Thursday cancelled its plan to gherao block offices across the State on Friday demanding ouster of Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Mayor Ananta Narayan Jena.

Talking to newsmen, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Prasad Harichandan, said, “Keeping the model code of conduct imposed by SEC in mind, OPCC has cancelled the agitation to be held on December 30 across all block offices across the state.”

“However, the block Congress presidents will submit memorandums addressing Governor SC Jamir to the block development officers demanding resignation of BMC mayor and a CBI probe into the mysterious death of engineering student Rishi,” Harichandan added.

Also read: Sex slur on Mayor: Rishi’s ‘girlfriend’ moves OHRC

According to Section five of Chapter-II of the model code of conduct issued by the SEC, burning of effigies of leaders of political parties is prohibited. Criticism of rival candidates on aspects of private life or of political parties on the basis of unverified allegations should be avoided, the model code says and adds, no demonstration or picketing in any form before the residence of any individual or before Government offices will be allowed.