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Assam Candidate Kunki Chowdhury Summoned Over Poll Code Violations

Assam Jatiya Parishad candidate Kunki Chowdhury has been summoned by Guwahati police for questioning over alleged violations of election norms during the April 9 polling. The FIR alleges breaches including the presence of a political worker during the silence period and Chowdhury entering a polling station with a group. Police have warned that failure to comply with the summons could lead to legal consequences, including arrest. Chowdhury has denied all allegations, calling the case politically motivated and asserting her campaign followed Election Commission guidelines.

Key Points: Assam Candidate Summoned for Election Norm Violations

  • Police summon for questioning
  • FIR over Model Code breaches
  • Alleged silence period violations
  • Denies charges as political
2 min read

Assam: Oppn candidate Kunki Chowdhury summoned over alleged poll code violations​

Assam Jatiya Parishad's Kunki Chowdhury summoned by police over alleged Model Code of Conduct breaches during Guwahati Central polling.

"the action politically motivated, claiming it was triggered by her party's growing public support - Kunki Chowdhury"

Guwahati, April 11

Assam Jatiya Parishad candidate from Guwahati Central, Kunki Chowdhury, has been summoned by city police in connection with alleged violations of election norms during polling held on April 9, officials said on Saturday. ​

According to police sources, a notice was issued by Panbazar Police Station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), directing Chowdhury to appear before the Officer-in-Charge at 11 a.m. on April 12 for questioning. ​

Authorities stated that there are reasonable grounds to examine her role in an ongoing investigation into reported irregularities. ​

The summons follows the registration of an FIR at Panbazar Police Station concerning alleged breaches of the Model Code of Conduct in the Guwahati Central Assembly constituency. ​

The case names Chowdhury, along with members of her social media team. As per the complaint, the alleged incidents occurred on polling day, when a political worker linked to the candidate was reportedly present in the constituency despite the mandatory 48-hour silence period prior to voting. ​

The FIR also alleges that Chowdhury entered a polling station accompanied by a group of individuals and interacted with voters in a manner that could potentially influence the electoral process. ​

Further allegations include the presence of vehicles associated with the candidate within restricted zones near polling booths, as well as the unauthorised entry of her security personnel inside polling premises. ​

Investigators have also cited instances of alleged voter outreach during the silence period, with digital and video evidence reportedly submitted to substantiate the claims. ​

Police have instructed Chowdhury to cooperate with the investigation, refrain from tampering with evidence, and comply with all directions issued during the probe. Officials warned that failure to respond to the summons could invite legal consequences, including possible arrest. ​

Reacting to the development, Chowdhury, in a social media statement, confirmed that an FIR had been lodged against her and members of her team. She alleged that some associates were detained overnight and said she had already visited the police station to record her statement, while emphasising that due legal procedures must be followed, particularly in recording a woman's statement. ​

Denying the allegations, Chowdhury asserted that her campaign adhered strictly to Election Commission guidelines and termed the action politically motivated, claiming it was triggered by her party's growing public support.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
This is becoming a pattern. As soon as an opposition candidate gains some traction, an FIR appears. We need free and fair elections, not this constant harassment. Hope the courts ensure justice. 🤞
S
Suresh O
The Model Code of Conduct is there for a reason. Entering a polling station with a group and interacting with voters? That's a serious allegation. If proven, it undermines the entire process. EC must be strict.
A
Anjali F
Her point about due procedure for recording a woman's statement is valid and must be respected. But that doesn't negate the need for a proper investigation. Let's not mix the two issues.
D
David E
Observing from outside, it seems Indian elections are always full of these dramatic accusations from both sides. It's hard for a common voter to know what's real. The focus should be on governance, not just winning.
V
Vikram M
Whether it's BJP, Congress, or a regional party like AJP, everyone tries to bend the rules. The silence period is crucial. If digital evidence exists, it should be made public for transparency. Jai Hind!

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