New Delhi, April 7 (IANS): The Election Commission Monday issued notice to BJP leader Amit Shah for violating the model code of conduct through his speeches made while campaigning in Uttar Pradesh.

The commission asked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, considered close to party prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi, to explain within three days as to why action should not be initiated against him for violating the model code while campaigning in Uttar Pradesh's Shamli, Bijnor and Muzaffarnagar districts.

Shah has been accused of speaking of "revenge" for the Muzaffarnagar communal riots during his meeting with Jat leaders in Bijnor in western Uttar Pradesh last week.

"The commission is, prima facie, of the opinion that by making the aforesaid statement you have violated the provisions of model code of conduct.

"Now, therefore, the commission gives you an opportunity to explain your stand in making the statement before 5 p.m. on April 9 failing which it will take a decision without further reference to you," said the notice issued by the commission.