Jaipur: The Election Commission has served a notice on Congress leader C P Joshi for alleged violation of code of conduct over his casteist remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, among others.
The notice was served by the returning officer of Rajsamand district following a complaint by the BJP.
Addressing a poll meeting in Rajasthan Thursday, Joshi had reportedly said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, MP Uma Bharti (BJP) and Hindu activist Sadhvi Ritambhara are from “lower castes” and know nothing of Hinduism. He said it is the Brahmins who are learned and know of Hinduism.
Joshi is contesting the December 7 Rajasthan Assembly elections from Nathdwara constituency.
“The notice was served on Joshi by returning officer Friday and he has been asked to submit his reply by 11 am of Sunday,” Rajasthan Chief Electoral Officer Anand Kumar said.
He said further course of action in the matter will be decided after the candidate’s response.
Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday disapproved of Joshi’s remarks in a tweet. The Congress chief said the remark is contrary to the party’s ideals. Later, Joshi tendered an apology.
The BJP, however, rejected the apology and said Gandhi must take responsibility and express regret.