The Election Commission has put the fear of stringent action, should the model code of conduct be violated, in the states going to the polls. Chief Election Commisioner S.Y. Quraishi’s order to cover all statues of Mayawati and elephants (the symbol of her BSP) has seen the Uttar Pradesh chief minister crying foul. In an interview with Anuradha Raman, he explains he has been equally tough on netas from all parties. Excerpts:
Doesn’t the decision to veil the statues of elephants and leaders of the BSP invite the charge that the Election Commission is targeting one party?