MP polls: EC notice to BJP nominee for temple donation

The Election Commission has issued a notice to Bharatiya Janata Party nominee from Narela constituency, Vishwas Sarang, after he reportedly gave Rs 1 lakh to a Jain temple in Bhopal on October 27 when the model code of conduct was in force in the poll-bound state.

The EC, in its notice issued to the BJP candidate on Tuesday, said that it had received information that the model code of conduct for polls had come in force from October four but Sarang had given money during a function at the Jain temple on October 27.

The assembly elections are scheduled to be held in Madhya Pradesh on November 25.

The commission has given time to Sarang till 11.30 am on November 15 to reply to its notice and explain why action should not be taken against him.

In case Sarang fails to reply, the commission will assume that he has nothing to say and will proceed to take appropriate action against him.

During the visit to the temple, the BJP nominee had said that he had promised to offer flowers when its construction was being carried out. He had also said that he paid Rs 1 lakh from his side for the temple.

Image: Vishwas Sarang

Photograph Courtesy: Vishwas Sarang's Facebook page