The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) has written to the Election Commission of India alleging a violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by BJP MLA Lakshman Chandra Ghorui in West Bengal.

In a letter dated March 16, AITC leader and MP Derek O'Brien asked the Election Commission to investigate the alleged distribution of items to residents in the Durgapur Paschim Assembly Constituency after the MCC came into force.

According to the complaint, the election schedule for the West Bengal Assembly polls was announced by the Election Commission on March 15 at 4 PM, after which the Model Code of Conduct immediately became applicable.

Alleged distribution of items

The Trinamool Congress claimed that an event was organised on the same day in the Station Bazaar area of the constituency. During the event, the BJP MLA allegedly distributed items such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, and walking sticks to elderly and economically weaker residents.

The letter stated that although helping vulnerable citizens is generally seen as positive, the timing of the distribution raised concerns because it took place after the MCC had already come into effect.

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"These items have been distributed after the MCC has already come into force. Distribution of goods or material benefits to members of the electorate during the election period raises a reasonable apprehension of inducement and will influence voters in the exercise of their franchise."

The party argued that such actions could amount to giving gratification to voters and may fall under "bribery" as defined under Section 123(1) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

Demand for inquiry

The complaint also stated that the timing and selective distribution of the items suggested that the act was intended to influence voters ahead of the elections.

"Such actions are calculated attempts to appease and influence a specific segment of voters belonging to the aforesaid constituency," the letter said.

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The Trinamool Congress urged the Election Commission to examine the matter and take appropriate action.

It requested the poll body to seek an explanation from Lakshman Chandra Ghorui and issue necessary directions to prevent similar incidents during the election period.

A copy of the letter was also sent to the Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal for information and further action.