STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: The ECI (Election Commission of India) has barred Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma from holding any public meetings, public processions, public rallies, road shows, interviews and public utterances in media (electronic, print and social media) etc., in connection with the ongoing elections for 48 hours with immediate effect on April 2, 2021.
The order from the ECI came after the complaint filed by the Congress that Sarma had threatened to their alliance partner Hagrama Mohilary. After finding prima facie violation of the model code of conduct the ECI did ask Sarma to explain his position by 5 pm on Friday.
According to the order issued by the ECI, the reply submitted by Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was not found to be satisfactory. "The Commission, hereby strongly condemns the impugned statements made by Himanta Biswa Sarma," the order signed by ECI Secretary Ajay Kumar Verma said.