Poll panel notice to Deputy CM Pawar over poll code violation

MUMBAI: The State Election Commission (SEC) today sought an explanation from Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a case of alleged violation of the election code of conduct.

The NCP leader laid the foundation stone for a bridge in Pune a few hours after the SEC on January 4 announced election schedule for 10 Municipal Corporations and 27 Zilla Parishads in the state.

The SEC press conference took place at 3.30 pm after which the code of conduct came into force. The foundation stone laying function was held in the evening.

Apart from Pawar, notices seeking explanation were also sent to Pune Municipal Commissioner, Mayor and the officer concerned, SEC sources said.

They have been asked to sent their replies at the earliest, they added.