EC takes exception to Kerala CM's anti-Modi speech

The Election Commission has expressed unhappiness over an election campaign speech by Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan attacking Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi earlier this month.

The Election Commission has expressed unhappiness over an election campaign speech by Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan attacking Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi earlier this month.

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In a letter to Achuthanandan, the Commission said the speech in which he allegedly dubbed Modi as a person who exulted while thousands were slaughtered, an apparent reference to post-Godhra riots of 2002, could have been avoided, official sources.

The letter, based on the report of a central poll observer, however, did not specify if the Election Commission expected an official explanation from Achuthanandan, failing which action would be initiated against him.

Achuthanandan was reported to have made the controversial remarks while addressing an election convention of the LDF independent Husein Randathani in Ponnani Lok Sabha seat on April 7.

Asked about the issue, sources in Chief Minister's office said follow-up steps, if necessary, would be taken after examining the issue.