The Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka announced that a case has been registered against the BJP's sitting MP and candidate for Bengaluru South, Tejasvi Surya, for violating the election code of conduct by soliciting votes on the ground of religion. This comes amidst polling in the state for the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The Bangalore South seat is a closely contested one between BJP's Surya and Congress's Sowmya Reddy. Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders will face Punjab Kings at Eden Gardens in an IPL 2024 match, with all eyes on Mitchell Starc's performance.
In the midst of the second phase of polling for the Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka, a case has been registered against BJP's sitting MP and candidate for Bengaluru South, Tejasvi Surya. The Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka announced that Surya violated the election code of conduct by soliciting votes on the ground of religion.
The Bangalore South seat is a closely contested one between BJP's Surya and Congress's Sowmya Reddy.
Background:
Tejasvi Surya is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has been the Member of Parliament for Bengaluru South since 2019. He is known for his strong Hindutva views and has often been accused of making inflammatory statements.
In April 2023, Surya was criticized for allegedly making communal remarks at a public meeting. He was accused of saying that "Muslims are responsible for the partition of India" and that "they are a threat to the nation."
Allegations and Investigation:
The complaint against Surya was filed by the Congress party, which alleged that he violated the election code of conduct by appealing to voters on the basis of their religion. The complaint was filed with the Election Commission of India (ECI).
The ECI has ordered an investigation into the matter and has appointed a three-member committee to probe the allegations. The committee has been directed to submit its report within a week.
Response from Tejasvi Surya:
Tejasvi Surya has denied the allegations and has accused the Congress of trying to "politicize the issue." He has said that he did not make any communal remarks and that he respects all religions.
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