THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: UDF and BJP complaints to poll panel citing violation of code of conduct over the government’s offer of free covid vaccine distribution. UDF has submitted a complaint to the election commissioner in this regard. The complaint was submitted by K C Joseph MLA on behalf of the front. Joseph in his complaint appealed to the poll panel to take due action against the authorities for making promises and declaration just ahead of the third phase of polls. BJP state president K Surendran has also said that he will approach the poll panel against the government’s announcement.

The chief minister in a press-meet held on Saturday, which was met to evaluate the covid 19 situation in the state, made the declaration that coronavirus vaccines will be distributed in the state for free. He said this as a reply to a question posed by a press person and this led to the controversy. The law states that once the model code of conduct comes into effect, authorities in power cannot make any declaration which could influence the voters. The commission can take necessary action on complaints received for violation of code of conduct.

The chief minister’s words came out just a day before the commencement of the third and final phase of the local body polls which is scheduled to be held on Monday. Four districts from Northern Kerala will approach the polling booths in the third phase. Opposition and BJP has alleged that chief minister’s statement will impact the voter’s behaviour.

BJP has already raised opposition to Chief Minister’s visit to sites of certain developmental projects in Kannur when he came to the district for poll campaign.