Date:26/12/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/12/26/stories/2005122608580400.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Poll panel should act against those who supplied liquor: BJP

Staff Reporter

Jagadish Shettar demands re-poll in all places where liquor was distributed

BANGALORE: The State Election Commission must initiate legal action against those who indulged in the supply of illicit seconds liquor to voters during the December 23 elections to zilla and taluk panchayats, President of the State unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party Jagadish Shettar said here on Sunday.

Snap polls

Mr. Shettar, who inaugurated a free eye check-up camp to mark the 82nd birthday of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, said there were strong indications that mid-term Assembly elections were round the corner and blamed the coalition partners, the Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) if it were to happen.

BJP performance

He said the commission must order re-polling in all the polling booths where the illegal distribution of liquor to entice voters had been reported.

However, the BJP expected to win by a huge majority in 15 zilla panchayats and 70 taluk panchayats, he claimed.

Mr. Shettar alleged that the Congress and Janata Dal (S), which were rivals in the zilla and taluk panchayat elections, had "cooperated" in this venture to win votes with liquor and pretended not to look when the other was indulging in these malpractices.

The commission must take serious note of this and initiate legal action against those who violated the norms, irrespective of their party affiliations, he said.

Probe sought

Uttarahalli MLA R. Ashok demanded an inquiry into the deaths due to consumption of liquor supplied to people during the elections.

The liquor-related deaths on polling day did not occur only in Magadi and Nelamangala taluks in Bangalore Rural district, he said and added that the fact was in every district there had been at least five deaths.

This must be inquired into, he demanded.

Plea to commission

Accusing the Janata Dal (S) of having distributed illicit liquor during the elections, Mr. Ashok said the Election Commission must call for a detailed report on the unlawful incidents that occurred and initiate appropriate action.