EC issues warning over packed poll rallies in Bihar

Taking a severe view of crowded rallies held recently in Bihar, the Election Commission Wednesday warned political parties of action if its instructions on maintaining crowd discipline and taking Covid-related precautions during campaigning are violated again.

The poll watchdog simultaneously instructed the Bihar Chief Electoral Officer and its district machinery in the state to “invoke appropriate and relevant penal provisions” under the Disaster Management Act, and the Indian Penal Code against candidates found violating EC’s orders.

The warning comes in the wake of election rallies in Bihar becoming more crowded and supporters not wearing masks while in attendance. Large crowds have been spotted at rallies recently addressed by RJD leader Tejashwi Pratap Yadav and Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi.