Panchayat polls: Union Minister files plaint against ruling BJD for poll code violation

Baripada: Alleging model code of conduct violation by ruling BJD in Odisha during panchayat polls, Union Minister Bishweswar Tudu lodged a complaint before Mayurbhanj District Collector Vineet Bhardwaj today.

While casting vote at booth no-8 at Khuntapala Primary School under Morada block of Mayurbhanj district, Tudu detected a large image of Chief Minister and BJD President Naveen Patnaik put up on wall of the polling booth.

It is worth to mention the Union Minister was at his native village Khuntapala to exercise his franchise during the first phase of three-tier panchayat polls.

Tudu lodged a complaint before the District Collector about the poll code violation by ruling BJD. Also, he raised the alleged irregularities at other booths in the district during the meeting with the Collector.

The Union Minister accused the ruling party of using both muscle power and administration to influence the voters.

Arrangements have not been made for voters at different booths in the district knowingly. While there has been enthusiasm among voters to exercise their franchise, the administration has not ensured necessary arrangements at booths in a bid to influence them, alleged the Union Minister.

He is hopeful voters will vote for a change in the district.