KOCHI: The Kerala High Court stayed Election Commission’s action of blocking distribution of rice in the state. The court ordered that distribution of special rice can continue. However, the court directed that distribution of rice should not be used for electioneering. The court order was issued on a plea filed by the government. The court observed that the government had taken the decision to distribute rice before February 4, the day the election notification was issued.

The government claimed in the court that the distribution of rice to non-priority groups at Rs 15 for 10 kg started during Covid period and this was a continuation of the action taken earlier. However, the election commission argued in court that if the process was to continue, why the distribution of rice was stopped in August and is an action eyeing polls. Distribution of rice in March-April months is violation of rules, the commission said. The court blocked this argument and asked the government to continue supply of rice.

The election commission earlier ordered to stop the distribution of rice on the complaint of the opposition.