Minister Under Fire: Allegations of Code Violation in College Campaign

The BJD has accused Odisha minister Nityananda Gond of violating the model code of conduct by campaigning for a BJP candidate at a government college. This action allegedly undermines electoral fairness and misuses educational spaces for political gains. The complaint seeks to ensure neutrality in the ongoing Nuapada bypoll.

The opposition BJD has filed a complaint with the Election Commission, alleging misconduct by Odisha minister Nityananda Gond during his campaign activities. Gond is accused of violating the model code of conduct by leveraging the premises of Gopinath GNM Nursing Training College in Nuapada for overtly political purposes supporting the BJP candidate.

Lenin Mohanty, BJD's spokesperson, highlighted the misuse of an educational institution for political ends, warning that such actions undermine public trust in the electoral process. He stated that Gond's conduct sets a dangerous precedent for exploiting public offices and educational institutions for political gains.

The complaint emphasizes the need to maintain neutrality in educational settings and governmental properties, particularly during election periods, to ensure a fair playing field. The bypoll for the Nuapada Assembly constituency is slated for November 11, amidst a three-way contest featuring candidates from the BJP, BJD, and Congress.

(With inputs from agencies.)