Samajwadi Party- EC Notice to Samajwadi Party: The Electoral Commission has issued a notice to Samajwadi Party for violating the Covid-19 guidelines. The Election Commission gave the advice after the SP held a public meeting at its Lucknow office on January 14. The rally was described as a “virtual event”, attended by hundreds of supporters. The Electoral Commission has given the SP 24 hours to respond, failing which it can take action.
what was said in the review
The notice sent to the SP General Secretary said: “Your explanation must reach the Commission within 24 hours of receipt of the notice, failing which the Commission will make an appropriate decision on the matter without informing you.” On January 8, the Electoral Commission announced a ban on physical gatherings in view of the upsurge in Covid-19 cases. On Saturday, this ban was extended until January 22.
Earlier on Friday, Lucknow police registered an FIR against Samajwadi party leaders and workers who attended the rally. The Lucknow Police Commissioner had registered an FIR against around 2,500 SP leaders under sections 188, 269, 270 and 341 of the IPC as well as relevant sections of the Epidemic Diseases Act. The city’s police chief said video evidence was obtained before the FIR was taped in this regard.
What did the Samajwadi Party say in defense?
SP Uttar Pradesh Unit Chief Naresh Uttam Patel said it was a virtual event inside our party office. We didn’t call anyone but people came. People are working following the covid protocol. BJP ministers had crowds here and in the markets too, but they have a problem with us.
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