Complaints against Mizoram CM, adviser sent to EC

Aizawl: Complaints against Mizoram chief minister Lalduhoma and adviser to CM Dr Lorrain Lalpekliana Chinzah for alleged violation of the model code of conduct (MCC) in the hustings for coming by-election to the Dampa assembly constituency have been referred to the Election Commission of India, state joint chief electoral officer Ethel Rothangpuii said on Saturday.Rothangpuii told TOI that show cause notices were served to Lalduhoma and Chinzah following the receipt to the complaint from the Mizo National Front (MNF), the main opposition party and explanation from the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) has been received by the chief electoral officer (CEO)’s office.The explanation received from ZPM will be examined and analysed by the CEO’s office before referring it on Monday to the central poll panel for final ruling and order, she said.Zothansangi Hmar, advocate, on behalf of MNF, submitted the complaint to the joint chief electoral officer alleging that the chief minister, during the campaign kick-off by the ruling ZPM party at West Phaileng village on Oct 21 announced that a new project of water supply by constructing a dam in Reiek village at the cost of Rs 770 crore to feed Reiek and nearby 14 other villages will be taken up.Hmar also alleged that Chinzah, on Oct 17 organised Free Health Clinic at Parvatui and Phulpui West villages where large amount of medicines were distributed free of costs. She said that the activities of the CM and adviser to CM were clear violation of the EMCC chapter II(j), chapter VIII (3) and (14).The complaint was forwarded to the DEO) of Mamit district and returning officer (RO) of Dampa assembly seat bye-election, the Joint CEO said, adding, “The CEO’s office will make analysis of the investigation report and comments of the DEO and RO and send it to the ECI for the latter's final decision.”She said the suo moto complaint made by the district election officer (DEO) of Mamit district against BJP for violation of the MCC by free distribution of T-shirts in Dampa constituency. The report from the DEO is being awaited as BJP has to give reply to the show cause notice being served to the party, she said.A complaint of MCC violation against state PWD minister Vanlalhlana has also been received by the CEO recently which will be examined. The Aaam Aadmi Party (AAP) though not contesting the bye-poll, alleged that Vanlalhlana in his speech on Oct 3 at Phuldungsei village implied the consequences of not voting for the ruling party. The AAP, in the complaint, alleged the minister's statement constitutes a clear case of coercion, threats, intimidation or undue influence to secure votes.