Mulayam caught ‘bribing’ voters

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Mulayam Singh Yadav is in trouble after the BJP complained to the election commission (EC) that he bribed voters in his Sefai hometown during Holi.

Mulayam denied the charge, but state election commissioner AK Vishnoi issued him a notice asking him to reply by March 14. It asked the Etawah district magistrate (DM) to probe and submit a report in two days. The DM has been asked to focus on the programme’s objective, people who were distributing the money and Mulayam’s role.

‘Bribing’ voters is a “corrupt practice” as defined in the Representation of People Act (1951). It is a violation of the model code of conduct as also of section 171 (B) IPC, attracting imprisonment up to a year or fine or both.

Mulayam’s supporters allegedly distributed Rs100 notes at a Holi function. Footage of the programme telecast on certain news channels show money being distributed in Mulayam’s presence. “Why are you creating such a ruckus? Everyone will get it... be seated,” Mulayam announces on the mike.

Mulayam, however, said, “I did not distribute any money... some people did give money to those who sang “phag” (folk song sung on Holi)... that is a tradition”.

At least two Etawah journalists confirmed Mulayam hosts such programmes every year and money is given out.

“Since the SP president is himself bribing voters, the EC should withdraw recognition of his party and confiscate its election symbol,” state BJP chief Ramapati Ram Tripathi said. “There is no need for an inquiry... the evidence is on tape,” he said.