The allegation against LDF-backed independent candidate from Idukki Joice George that he owns disputed land will not affect his candidature, Chief Electoral Officer Nalini Netto has clarified.
“The District Collector has informed me about the case. But as far as the election is concerned, it is not an issue,” Netto said when asked about the charge against George.
“Once the nomination papers are accepted, the election process is set in motion and it will be taken to its logical conclusion. But anyone is free to file an election petition if a false affidavit was given by the candidate. But at this point in time, it is not an issue,” she said.
Asked whether it was proper on the part of the government to order a probe by the Revenue Department into the land under dispute when elections are round the corner, Netto said that an inquiry would not amount to violation of election rules.
“An inquiry in itself is not a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. But only after seeing the order of inquiry can I comment on it further,” she said.