Show cause to JP Aggarwal for ‘communal speech’

The State Election Commission on Wednesday sent a show cause notice to Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee (DPCC) president JP Aggarwal, asking him to explain his allegedly 'communal' speech at Chandni Chowk.

The State Election Commission on Wednesday sent a show cause notice to Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee (DPCC) president JP Aggarwal, asking him to explain his allegedly 'communal' speech at Chandni Chowk.

The move comes following complaints by BJP state president Vijender Gupta, leader of opposition VK Malhotra and MLA Rameshwar Chaurasia.

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The BJP delegation met Chief Election Commissioner Rakesh Mehta in the morning and apprised him about the 'controversial' remarks where Aggarwal allegedly said, "Muslim should not split their vote and weaken their influence. They are sensible enough to choose their leader. However, they must not allow split in votes".

Aggarwal has been given 24 hours to reply.

"Congress is speaking on communal lines. How can they ask Muslims not to vote for the BJP? Such statements should not be tolerated. We have written to state election commission to take strict action against the announcement," said Malhotra.

"This public statement is in violation of para-3 of the Model Code of Conduct issued by the State Election Commission and also described as a corrupt practice under section 22(3) of MCD Act," said Vijender Gupta. He demanded an FIR against Aggarwal.