EC stops Karnataka govt ads in Telangana, seeks explanation after BJP's complaint

NEW DELHI: The Election Commission has sought explanation from Karnataka govt over advertisements publicising its achievements in newspapers circulating in Telangana. The poll body has set November 28, 5pm deadline for the state government's reply. The Election Commission has said that the advertisements were in violation of its instructions to get prior clearance for such ads.

The poll body has asked Karnataka govt to stop publication of such advertisements in Telangana with immediate effect till necessary approvals are taken from the poll body.

Earlier today, the BJP had petitioned the Election Commission against the Karnataka government's advertisements.

A BJP delegation, including Union minister Bhupender Yadav, former minister Prakash Javadekar and party leaders Sudhanshu Trivedi and Om Pathak, submitted a complaint to the EC, saying the Congress has violated the Representation of the People Act and the Model Code of Conduct.

Yadav told reporters that the Karnataka government has been publishing advertisements in English and vernacular media of Telangana for the past few days.

Citing poll rules and regulations, he said it is a "corrupt practice" aimed at influencing polls and asserted that such an action is another evidence of the opposition party devaluing democratic institutions and norms.

The BJP has urged the EC to take action against Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah and other related members of his government and the Congress for using public money to influence elections in another state.