BJD Complains Against Minister Gond for MCC Violation in Nuapada Bypoll

Bhubaneswar: The Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Tuesday filed a formal complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha against School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond, alleging violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in connection with the upcoming Nuapada Assembly by-election.

The complaint also names BJP’s Nuapada bypoll candidate Jay Dholakia and the authority of an educational institution in Nuapada district for their alleged involvement in the incident.

Addressing the media after meeting the CEO, senior BJD leader Lenin Mohanty said that Minister Gond had attended a programme organised under the banner of Gond Samaj at an educational institution in Nuapada on October 20, where he allegedly made political statements and extended support to the BJP candidate.

“Although the event was presented as a community gathering, its content and intent were clearly political, aimed at influencing voters in favour of the BJP candidate,” Mohanty said, terming it a direct breach of the election code.

He further added that the use of an educational institution for political campaigning violates the Election Commission’s guidelines. “Despite the Model Code of Conduct being in effect, the Minister participated in the event, made political promises, and campaigned for the BJP candidate,” he said.

The BJD has demanded a detailed inquiry and strict action against all individuals involved, including the Minister, the BJP candidate, and the concerned educational institution, which is reportedly government-aided.

According to party sources, the CEO has assured the BJD delegation that a thorough probe will be conducted and appropriate measures will be taken as per election norms.