Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore (SP)

Bangalore, Aug 11: In view of the fast-approaching by-election and the fact that the code of conduct is in force, the Chief Minister can not dole out any assurances at the conference of Madia Dandoras being organized in Chittapur constituency of Gulbarga district on Tuesday August 11 by the BJP, the Election Commission said. The Commission explained, that it would be improper for the Chief Minister to take part in such conferences but if he wants to participate in his individual capacity, nothing stops him from doing that.

It accordingly has directed the district election officer to record the address of the Chief Minister at the conference.

The Commission has received five complaints each against the BJP, Congress and the JDS while BSP faces two complaints and 12 complaints have been made against the independent candidates. Liquor and vehicles used to transport them were seized, as per the complaints received by the Commission, sources said.

In the meanwhile, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee working president D K Shivakumar said that he would be complaining to the Election Commission against the electoral irregularities committed by the BJP and JDS candidates. Addressing a press conference in Channapatna on Monday, he complained that the government officials have been functioning as the election agents of the BJP candidate. He also took umbrage to the threat posed by the local JDS candidate in a speech, that he would commit suicide if he fails to win this election, as he had been defeated twice earlier. "This is a case of emotional blackmail and clear violation of the code of conduct," he said.

He added that his party has already requested the district deputy commissioner to arrest the JDS candidate on the charges of attempting to commit suicide.