Lokpal Bill has no link with election process: SY Quraishi

CHANDIGARH: Chief Election Commissioner S Y Quraishi today said that the debate on Lokpal Bill does not have any link with the Election Process as the model code of conduct does not apply to Parliament.

Answering a question from a reporter here this evening regarding the passage of the Lok Pal bill by the Parliament influencing the voters in five states, including Punjab, where assembly elections are to be held early next year, Quraishi said, "Model Code of Conduct does not apply on Parliament."

The CEC was here with an Election Commission team to review preparations for the election to the 117-member Punjab assembly on January 30.

He further said, "In it (discussion and passage of the Lok Pal bill) all parties are involved. Lokpal Bill has no link with the election process."

"Parliament is an independent and Constitutional body which enjoys total autonomy and Model Code of Conduct is not applicable on it," he added.