Complaint Filed Over Alleged Violation of Model Code of Conduct in Chinchwad constituency
Chinchwad, 21st November 2024: A complaint has been lodged against alleged violations of the Model Code of Conduct during polling in the Chinchwad constituency of the Maharashtra Assembly elections. The election representative of Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA) candidate Rahul Kalate has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate representing Mahayuti, Shankar Jagtap, of indirect campaigning through a network of booths set up under the guise of voter awareness.
Booths were set up in multiple locations, including Good Samaritan School, Wakad Gavthan, Vikasnagar, and Kiwale, by a group wearing shirts emblazoned with “Sajag Raho” (Be Vigilant). These booths, reportedly operated by the SPJ Foundation, encouraged citizens to vote. However, Kalate’s representatives claim the initiative promoted BJP’s candidate in violation of the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) guidelines.
The complaint highlights that booths were organized by Sajjag Nagari Manch, with QR codes prominently displayed. Scanning these codes reportedly directed users to the SPJ Foundation website, which features a photograph of BJP candidate Shankar Jagtap. Kalate’s team has submitted evidence of this link, alleging it constitutes indirect promotion on polling day.
“This is a direct breach of the Model Code of Conduct. The Election Commission has been provided with written complaints and supporting evidence, including emails sent to the District Collector and the ECI,” said Rahul Kalate’s representatives.
They also claimed that after raising objections, opposition groups circulated a fake video to mislead voters. “We trust the Election Commission will take appropriate action against this unethical practice,” they added.
No official response has been issued by the ECI or Shankar Jagtap’s team at the time of reporting.
