EC seeks transcript of PM Modi's speech against Rajiv Gandhi

NEW DELHI: The Election Commission will soon examine the transcript of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech at Pratapgarh on May 4, in which he had referred to late PM Rajiv Gandhi as "bhrashtachari no 1", for any poll code breach.It is learnt that the reports of UP chief electoral officer and concerned district election officer sent to EC along with the full transcript of the PM's speech, have ruled out any prime facie violation of the model code of conduct. A final decision however will be taken by EC.The Congress had lodged a complaint with EC on Monday against Modi's remarks which party leaders described as "uncultured, illegal and against Indian traditions". Sources said EC is also evaluating if Congress president Rahul Gandhi's jibe "Chowkidaar Chor Hai" also violates the model code. However, since the matter is pending in Supreme Court, the poll body will carefully examine the court's observations before proceeding further. A team of Congress leaders, comprising Abhishek Singhvi, Rajiv Shukla and Salman Khurshid, had met the EC on Monday to demand immediate action against Modi for his 'bhrasthachari no 1' remark against late PM Rajiv Gandhi. EC has so far given a chean-chit to Prime Minister in all 8 cases where complainants had alleged violation of the poll code or its advisories by him. Sources said EC, as asked by the Supreme Court, has submitted the replies sent to the complainant, ruling out any violation of model code or its advisories by Modi and BJP president Amit Shah. The replies do not record the dissenting view of election commissioner Ashok Lavasa in five cases.