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Bhubaneswar: The State Election Commission on Thursday issued show cause notice to state Finance Minister Prasanna Acharya for allegedly violating the model code of conduct in the ongoing civic polls in Western Odisha.
The action came in the wake of allegations against Acharya that the minister while addressing a gathering in Bargarh, threatened voters of "stopping funds" as Finance Minister of the state if they vote any candidate other than BJD.
Talking to media, State Election Commissioner A K Tripathy said, "I have received written complaints from both the Congress and the BJP. The Commission has sought clarification from Acharya about the allegations.”
The minister has been asked to submit his reply by November 23, the official said.
The poll watchdog has also asked the district collector of Bargarh district to verify allegation against the minister and report immediately.
According to reports, Acharya while campaigning for BJD candidates in Bargarh on Sunday had reportedly said, "I am Odisha's Finance minister. Funds are in my hands. If you vote for Congress I shall lock the funds. I have told people everywhere, if you vote for the 'Hand' symbol my treasury is locked for you."
On the other hand, delegations of Opposition Congress and BJP met the SEC and submitted memoranda demanding resignation of Acharya.
