Maharashtra: CEO initiates action against school for use of children in Nitin Gadkari's campaign

Nagpur: The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Maharashtra has initiated action against the management of a privately-run and government-aided school for allegedly allowing use of its students in the poll campaign of Bharatiya Janata Party candidate from Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, officials said here.

As per the CEO’s letter, the poll body had summoned school director Murlidhar Pavnikar and after his oral and written submissions, found his complicity in the matter.

It has now referred the matter to the Education officer for appropriate action against Pavnikar as per the rules.

It may be recalled that state Congress chief spokesperson Atul Londhe lodged a complaint with the CEO and Election Commission of India (ECI) authorities against Gadkari for alleged use of school students in the BJP leader’s poll event, thus violating the model code of conduct.

“We welcome the state CEO for taking cognizance of our complaint and initiating action against the Director of NSVM Fulwari School. However, when will the CEO take action against BJP candidate Gadkari, who has flouted the poll code,” demanded Londhe.

As per the complaint filed on April three to the CEO, on April one, students of the prestigious NSVM Fulwari School had reportedly participated to welcome Gadkari at his election rally held at Vaishali Nagar between 1200-1300 hours.

“Making use of schoolchildren for political propaganda is wrong and is in complete violation of the election code of conduct and violative of the ECI’s clear directives, which were ignored by BJP and its candidate,” Londhe added.