Imphal: In an ongoing investigation, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Manipur, Pradeep Kumar Jha, has stated that his office is meticulously examining a complaint regarding a potential violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) following a gathering of a significant number of individuals, predominantly women, at the chief minister’s secretariat in Imphal.
Addressing the media at his office in Imphal during the launch of a signature campaign on electoral participation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the state, Jha disclosed that his office received a formal complaint from a political party concerning the aforementioned gathering subsequent to the announcement of the poll schedules.
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The CEO further elucidated that his office has requested a detailed report from the respective district election officer (DEO) and is currently awaiting its submission. The subsequent course of action, including any potential violations of the MCC, will be contingent upon the findings delineated in the aforementioned report.
Jha emphasized the enforcement of the MCC across the entire state from the moment the schedules for the 18th Lok Sabha elections were proclaimed, underscoring the collective responsibility of all relevant stakeholders, including political parties and candidates, to adhere to its directives.
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Highlighting recent developments, the CEO referenced a complaint lodged by the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) urging election authorities to scrutinize the congregation of individuals, predominantly women, at the chief minister’s secretariat for potential MCC breaches.
Responding to queries from journalists, Jha acknowledged instances of pressure groups constraining election campaigns and the display of party flags via social media platforms. However, no formal complaints have been received by his office from any political entity or candidate regarding such occurrences.
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Regarding security concerns stemming from recent incidents of gunfire at election campaign venues in Ukhrul district, the CEO affirmed directives issued to district police and relevant authorities to bolster security measures.
Jha concluded by disclosing that his office has received only one formal complaint thus far concerning MCC violations, reaffirming the commitment to refer any additional complaints to the respective DEO or Returning Officer (RO) for necessary action.
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