EC issues notice to Kejriwal for accusing BJP of communal violence

The Election Commission on Saturday issued a showcause notice to Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal for "prima facie" violating the Model Code of Conduct with his remarks alleging that BJP is trying to incite communal violence in the capital city.

The Election Commission has sent a notice to Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal for accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party of "communal politics" while speaking at an election rally on Friday.

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"There were no riots in Delhi for 30 years but suddenly we see communal tension all around. We are here to pursue politics of love, not hate,” Kejriwal had said in Trilokpuri, a locality in east Delhi where riots broke out in October.

"The BJP brought MPs and the prime minister himself to address rallies. I attended one such rally. There were seven MPs on the stage and barely 10 who attended the public meeting. They have brought in Kiran Bedi and Shazia Ilmi but the public is smart. The truth will prevail,” said Kejriwal.

The commission found Kejriwal's allegations prima facie violate the election model code of conduct that prohibits candidates from commenting on the personal life of the opponents and making unverified allegations. The code advises leaders not to create hatred or cause tension between different castes and communities.

The commission has also asked Kejriwal to respond to allegations he had made against Delhi BJP chief Satish Upadhayay, accusing him of owning companies which supplied meters to power discom BSES. Kejriwal has to submit his reply by January 20.