Congress candidate from Surat Lok Sabha seat held for violating norms

Police today arrested Congress nominee from Surat Lok Sabha seat Naishadh Desai for allegedly not adhering to the Election Commission notification about using private property for poll-related purpose.

Desai, who was taken into custody on a complaint by election commission officials, was subsequently granted bail.

It is alleged Desai opened an office at a house on Gorat Road in Rander area without taking permission from poll authorities.

"Since the last few days, Desai has been coming to that house and presiding over election-related meetings called by his party workers. This came to the notice of election officials, who lodged a complaint against him with us today," said M M Diwan, Police Inspector of Rander.

Acting swiftly, police arrested Desai and booked him under Section 188 of IPC (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant).

"Desai did not take permission from authorities before converting that house into his election office," said Diwan.

Late in the evening, Desai was taken to a court, which granted him bail.