Gujarat to submit VHP report today

The EC had asked the state to submit a report on the yatra which begins next week. Speaking to mediapersons in Rajkot today, Chief Election Commissioner J.M. Lyngdoh said voluntary organisations had complained that the VHP was using photographs of the burning train coaches in Godhra at its public meetings. Asked what action the EC planned to take, he said: ‘‘Nothing can be said before the government submits a report.’’

Lyngdoh declined to comment on the VHP’s statement that the EC could not interfere in its programmes as it was not a political party.

Asked what he meant by the statement that the situation in the state is nasty, Lyngdoh said: ‘‘Provocative speeches are being made. In some relief camps, water supply has been disconnected for days. What else can be called nasty?’’

Lyngdoh and Election Commissioners T.S. Krishnamurthy and B.B. Tandon met the collectors of the eight districts in Saurashtra region, voluntary organisations and political parties.

‘‘The EC team will continuously monitor the situation. It has asked for the security arrangement plan, and only after its clearance will security forces be deployed,’’ they said.

Tandon said each polling station will get four officials — two from outside — to ensure free and fair polls.

‘‘Candidates with criminal background will have to file an affidavit about charges against them along with their nomination forms. A copy of their affidavit will be available for a nominal fee,’’ Lyngdoh said.