ECI seeks explanation on temple grants

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has sought an explanation from the state chief secretary on the release of grants by the revenue department to temples, thereby violating the model code of conduct.

In a letter sent on Friday last, ECI secretary RK Srivastava said the commission had received information about the release of grants even to the temples in the constituencies where by-elections were held on Saturday last, thus violating the code of conduct which had been in force since March 12.

Official sources said that the explanation was sent to the ECI on Saturday last.

The state government issued a notification sanctioning Rs110 crore for improvement of temples and religious places in February.

“The money had to be utilised before the end of the financial year, as it came under the budget proposals. About 95% of the Rs110 crore was sanctioned much before the elections. Only some temples were sanctioned money after the elections were declared,” the sources said.