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Journalism of Courage
Chief Election Commissioner T.S. Krishnamurthy was in Lucknow today when 22 women were killed in a stampede at a function where free sarees were being distributed. Krishnamurthy, who was visiting UP to review poll preparedness, asked Chief Secretary V.K. Diwan to give a detailed report on the incident. ‘‘An appropriate decision will be taken after studying the report,’’ he said, avoiding a direct comment on whether the incident was a clear violation of the model code of conduct.
Incidentally, the Lucknow SSP Rajiv Ranjan Verma had said that permission was not taken to organise the function. The SSP also said that prohibitory orders were in force in view of the parliamentary polls and the administration had neither been informed about the venue nor about the function where 10,000 women gathered to receive free sarees from Tandon.
On such a violation, the model code clearly specifies: A party or candidate shall ascertain in advance if there are any restrictive or prohibitory orders in force in the place proposed for the meeting. If such orders exist, they shall be followed strictly.
The model code has special strictures for the ‘party in power’ whether at ‘‘the Centre or in the state or states’’ concerned. Rule VI (A) of the code states: From the time elections are announced by the Commission, Ministers and other authorities shall not announce any financial grants in any form or promises.
