BJP MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi, representing the Gokak constituency, has held at least three rallies in the Belagavi Rural constituency in the last two months. Karnataka is waiting for the announcement of assembly election dates. , Photo Credit: PK Badigar
In a night-long drive, Belagavi district administration officials with election responsibilities registered a case of clear violation of election rules.
The two accused, Nagendra Balappa Naik and Nagesh Munnolkar, are accused of organizing mass meals and feeding meat-based food to SC/ST voters’ rally participants. Both the accused are said to be supporters of BJP MLA and former minister Ramesh Jarkiholi who addressed the rally.
The accused had organized a SC/ST rally at Santi Bastwad village in Belagavi Rural assembly constituency on March 15, for which around 3,000 people were invited. After the rally, the participants were served lunch which consisted of meat-based dishes. An election flying squad visited the venue and confirmed that meat-based dishes were served to the attendees. Utensils used for cooking have been seized.
The First Information Report (FIR) lodged by the Election Returning Officer at Belagavi Rural Police Station states that the case was registered under: Section 171E (punishment for bribery) of the Indian Penal Code.
Congress MLA Lakshmi Hebbalkar represents the Belagavi Rural constituency.
Shri Munnolkar is a BJP leader and former President of Hindalga Gram Panchayat. He is a contender for BJP ticket from this seat. BJP MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi representing Gokak constituency has Organized at least three rallies In the last two months in the Belagavi Rural constituency.
Though the model code of conduct is yet to come into force, the election returning officers are registering cases under existing laws. “The Election Commission has issued clear instructions that all existing laws, rules and regulations should be used to see that the elections are held in a free and fair manner,” Deputy Commissioner Nitesh Patil said.
In a separate incident, district police and static surveillance team members intercepted a suspicious vehicle at Yaddalgudda check post in Gokak assembly constituency and seized ₹3.5 lakh in unaccounted cash. Rupees were seized from Laxman Hanumant Gadad of Mannikeri village.
The officials deposited the money in the district treasury and sent a notice to Mr. Gadd seeking an explanation.