Puttur: Meeting halted, MLA office sealed for violating Model Code of Conduct

Team Udayavani, May 14, 2024, 8:58 AM IST

Puttur: Election officers intervened in a meeting attended by MLA Ashok Kumar Rai for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct currently imposed for the Lok Sabha Elections.

The gathering, purportedly involving Jalasiri officials and MLA, convened to address the pressing issue of water scarcity persisting for 15 days.

Under the direction of MLA Ashok Kumar Rai, a meeting was convened at the hall in the MLA’s office in the Municipal Building to address public complaints regarding the severe water shortage. Attendees included Jalasiri Engineer Madesh, pump operators, and other staff.

However, upon receiving instructions from the Municipal Corporation, Paurayukta Badruddin Soudhagar left the meeting, citing the election code of conduct. Nonetheless, discussions about Jalasiri’s progress ensued.

The intervention came with the arrival of Tehsildar Kunhi Ahmed, who instructed the MLAs to cease the meeting, citing the Model Code of Conduct. Despite MLA Rai’s argument about the urgency of addressing the water crisis, the meeting was ultimately terminated.

Subsequently, in adherence to the Election Code of Conduct, the MLA’s office was closed, alongside the locking of the Municipal Council building. This action followed a case registered against MLA Ashok Kumar Rai, Pradeep, Municipal Councilor Badruddin, and Jalsiri officials for alleged code of conduct violations.

It is gathered that a show cause notice will be issued to the concerned officials regarding the violation.

MLA threatens to protest:

MLA Ashok Kumar Rai told the Tehsildar that while the code of conduct was in effect, officials ought to have taken steps to address the drinking water issue. Frustrated by the lack of action, Rai asserted his responsibility to address public concerns and proceeded with the meeting. Rai warned of potential protest action if prompt measures were not taken.

Despite his plea, the Tehsildar insisted on halting the meeting, leading the legislator to comply and cancel the gathering.