Parrikar gets clean chit from Election Commission on poll code violation

PANAJI: The Election Commission's local office has dismissed a complaint of violation of model code of conduct filed against Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar by opposition Congress.

Goa Pradesh Congress Committee had complained to the EC against Parrikar, pointing out to his post on Twitter and Facebook wherein he had informed people that the investment cum industrial policy would be announced by this month end.

The GPCC had alleged that the post violated election code of conduct.

Goa chief secretary's office, sought to explain to the ECI on behalf of the chief minister, had clarified that the announcement about the investment policy was made in the state budget which was presented on March 5.

EC Goa officials told PTI that since there is no restriction on presenting the budget during code of conduct period, the announcement cannot be perceived as violation.

"The budget was drafted much before the code of conduct came into force," the officials said, adding that the announcement does not amount to violation of code of conduct.