Gadkari gets ECI notice

The Commission directed Gadkari to explain his statement by 5 pm on Oct 8 where he  appeared to urge people in poll-bound Maharashtra to accept bribes for their votes.

According to the press release issued by the Election Commission, Gadkari had said: "Now, I am watching your faces and I have some skill of predicting the future by way of face reading. You have an oppurtunity of "Laxrni darshan" in next 10 days. Special people to get foreign made, ordinary people to get local brand, Am I right? Sisters, elderly sisters....Sarees  for old women, Pant shirt for a young boy and all are "Gandhivadis"  asking for Rs. 5000/-. ln these days of inflation, keep one thing in mind, eat what you wish and drink what you desire. Keep whatever you get. This is the time when illegally  earned money  can go to poor. Therefore, do not say no to "Laxrni". But think while you vote. Your vote should be for the development  of Maharashtra."

Gadkari had made the remarks while campaigning in Maharashtra.

"Whereas, your aforesaid  statements  amount to abetting  and promoting  the electoral offence of bribery within the meaning of section 171B read with section 17lE of the Indian Penal Code,1860,  as it,  inter alia, includes  offering food,drink  or entertainment  etc , and Whereas,  the Commission is, prima facie,  of the opinion that by making the aforesaid statements  you have violated  the above  said provision  of Model Code of Conduct;Now, therefore,  the commission gives you an opportunity to explain  your stand in making the above said statements  by 1700 hrs of 8th October, 2014 failing  which the ECI shall take a decision without further reference to you." read the statement issued by the ECI.