Lucknow: Taking serious note of the alleged virulent utterances by the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Pilibhit candidate Varun Gandhi, the Election Commission on Wednesday ordered immediate removal of the district magistrate and district police chief and sought suspension of two other officials.
According to an official spokesman, the poll panel has directed the Uttar Pradesh administration to replace District Magistrate Mahendra Agrawal and Senior Superintendent of Police RK Chaturvedi.
The commission further recommended the suspension of Additional District Magistrate SS Kamal and Assistant Superintendent of Police Saurabh Kush.
A notice has also been issued to Varun Gandhi to show cause why action should not be taken against him for violating the election code of conduct by making inflammatory speeches clearly aimed at arousing religious passions.
A separate notice has been shot off to the BJP.
"Both Varun Gandhi and the party are required to give their respective replies latest by March 20," state Chief Election Officer AK Bishnoi told reporters in Lucknow on Wednesday evening.
Meanwhile, the state police has launched investigation in the criminal case registered against Varun Gandhi.
"We have sent the CDs, provided by the complainant in the case, for forensic study to establish its authenticity," Additional Director General of Police Brij Lal said.
Varun Gandhi has alleged that the CDs were "doctored".
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