Railway board directs all zones to remove political-ads from premises
Railway Board Chairman VK Yadav today wrote to all zones, asking them to remove all kinds of political advertising from railway premises after a series of instances of violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into light. The order comes days after railways had to explain why tickets issued to passengers had photographs of PM Modi after MCC had come into force.
Teacups with PM Modi's photograph found on board Kathgodam Shatabdi
The message was sent to all zonal general managers and divisional railways. Many instances of MCC violation have been recorded all over the country. Just two days ago, a teacup bearing the BJP's election campaign slogan Main bhi Chowkidaar created a furor. This particular cup was found on board 12040 Kathgodam Shatabdi. Tea was served twice in these cups.
Railways asked to explain prima facie violation of MCC
The message from Yadav says, "Dear GMs/DRMs, any advertisement having photograph of any political leader on railway ticket, any other railway stationery, railway coaches, railway stations, any other railway premises should be immediately removed and advertising agency should be suitably informed." EC sources on Saturday said that Railways have been asked to explain the prima facie violation of the model code of conduct.
EC invoked 'party in power' clause of poll code
The Railways have also been asked to explain the person responsible for the teacups carrying the chowkidar slogan. The EC is learned to have invoked the "party in power" clause of the poll code in the case as it could be averred that party in power is using government transporter for election publicity. The IRCTC also issued a statement over the issue on Friday.
Rs. 1L fine imposed on service provider: IRCTC
"Reports that tea has been served in cups labeled as 'Main bhi Chowkidar' have been investigated. This was without the approval of IRCTC... Explanation has been sought from Supervisor/Pantry Incharges over lack of devotion to duty. Rs. 1 lakh fine has been imposed on the service provider," said IRCTC. "Showcause notice has been served to the service provider for this misconduct," it said.
