Mamata Government on Wrong Side of EC Not Just Over Sting Video

Discomfort for the ruling TMC in West Bengal increased as the Election Commission said it would examine the sting operation.

KOLKATA: Discomfort for the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal on Tuesday increased as the Election Commission said it would examine the sting operation showing TMC leaders accepting cash, and also came down heavily on the state administration for “not being up to the mark” on keeping to the model code, giving it an ultimatum of 48 hours to comply with its directives.

Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi, after meeting with top officials of the state administration and districts, said, “The EC has noted laxity of model code of conduct by some officials. We have asked them to be neutral, a strict directive has been issued, and a close watch is being kept on some officials. The 31,000 non bailable warrants against known criminals should be executed immediately as the performance is not up to the mark. Civic police volunteers will not be used in any electoral process.

“All posters, banners, hoardings with photographs on government premises, municipal corporations and public transp­ort must be removed in 48 hours failing which serious acti­on will be initiated,” he warned.

Zaidi said, “We have identified places where black money, fake Indian currency notes (FICN), arms and explosives smuggled from across the border and illicit liquor might be stored. Our 800 flying squads will carry out raids along with central paramilitary forces and tough action will be taken.”

Replying to a question about the Narada sting, Zaidi remarked, “We received it (video) last night and have not yet seen it but it will be passed on to the appropriate authorities. We will get the matter examined.”

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