A political row has broken out in Arunachal Pradesh after state Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Ojing Tasing allegedly declared that panchayat segments where the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) loses would be denied government schemes.
Speaking at an election rally in Lower Dibang Valley on Wednesday, Tasing reportedly stated that “government schemes will not go to those panchayat segments where the BJP is defeated”, India Today NE reported. In videos widely circulated online, he is heard saying, “Remember, the panchayat minister is making this statement. I do what I say.”
Local body elections in the state are scheduled for December 15.
The remark drew sharp criticism from the Opposition Congress, which described it as “blatant and unlawful”. The party lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission, seeking action against the minister.
In the complaint, the Congress stated that the comment amounted to a direct threat to voters and an attempt to influence the electorate through intimidation and misuse of official authority. It further argued that the remark violated the Model Code of Conduct, democratic principles of free and fair polls, and Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which lists undue influence and threats as corrupt practices.
The Model Code of Conduct is a set of election guidelines issued by the Election Commission governing campaign behaviour, speeches, processions, manifestos, and government actions during polls.
State Election Commission Secretary Taru Talo told that a report has been sought from the district deputy commissioner regarding the incident.
Tasing has not responded to the matter so far.