Cong accuses state poll panel of delaying probe against Grover

ROHTAK: The Congress on Wednesday accused the state election commission of delaying action against minister of state for cooperation Manish Grover over his provocative speech offering money, guns and gunmen to the voters.

Congress-backed mayoral candidate from Rohtak, Sitaram Sachdeva, had filed a complaint with the commission over the minister’s speech, following which the panel had marked a probe to the Rohtak deputy commissioner and asked for a report within one day.

However, after Rohtak DC submitted his report, the commission has now assigned an observer to probe the speech of the minister. “It seems the authorities concerned were dilly-dallying over the matter under pressure from the state government and would give a clean chit to the minister,” Sachdeva said.

State election commissioner Dalip Singh said the DC’s report is being examined. He said a report was sought from the general observer, Brijender Singh, and further action would be taken after getting the report.

Grover had on Friday courted controversy when he said he was ready to provide guns and money to the people till December 16 when MC elections will be held. Grover was campaigning for a BJP candidate from ward 10 in Rohtak when some people complained to the minister that the rival candidate was flaunting guns to instil fear among them.

However, instead of assuring lawful action, Grover said he would also provide guns to the residents. Later, he said he did not offer any illegal weapons, but only assured police security.